WA’s beloved Rottnest Island is set to go green in a government boost to reduce emissions on the island.
A $62 million dollar commitment from the McGowan government will go towards renewables which will power 75 per cent of the island’s needs. The money will also go towards upgrading energy and water infrastructure.
The investment is in addition to McGowan’s previous allocation of $31 million to upgrades to Rottnest’s ageing water supply and roads.
Reducing fossil fuel reliance
Some of the initiatives for reducing fossil fuel reliance are:
- Doubling the solar power produced from the already existing solar farm
- Replacing the existing wind turbine generator on Mt Herschel with two smaller units, increasing practical capacity and efficiency
- Installing a utility-scale battery storage solution
- Upgrading the power grid
Through the commitment to green energy, an estimated four-thousand tonnes of carbon emissions will be cut.
Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) appliances will also be phased out in preparation for renewable sources of power for the island’s vehicles.
Rottnest is on the path to become an eco-tourist destination, with hundreds of bikes available for hire as the main way to get around the island.
It’s a Class-A nature reserve that attracts many tourists, with nearly 800 thousand flocking to the island before COVID struck.
Work will also start this month on a State-funded $12.9 million upgrade to the main jetty where more than 400,000 people are expected to arrive by ferry this year.
Premier Mark McGowan says it’s a major achievement.
“The major reduction in emissions is a huge boost to efficiently running the island and in turn, benefits local businesses, operators and visitors,” says McGowan.
Tourism Minister Roger Cook also says it’s a once in a generation opportunity to replace the island’s ageing infrastructure.
“Rottnest Island is the jewel in our tourism crown, being a destination of choice for many Western Australians and a drawcard for interstate and international visitors.”
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