Biochar plant for Ballina
JOBS and diverting 29,000 tonnes of organic material from landfill, and turning it into biochar and electricity, will be the benefits of an $8.5m plant to be built at the Ballina Waste Management Centre.
Last week it was announced by Federal Member for Page, Janelle Saffin, and the Regional Australia Minister Simon Crean, that the project will receive $4.3m from Round Two of the Regional Development Australia Fund (RDAF).
The project missed out on Round One funding, but persistence paid off.
"Ballina Shire Council has made the commitment to reducing its carbon footprint - they've identified the 'what', we're saying here's 'how'. We're investing with councils to deliver the projects that will help communities transition to a clean-energy future," Mr Crean said.
"Through RDAF, the Australian Government will provide Ballina Shire Council with $4.3 million to get the $8.5 million plant powering ahead, matching the commitment already made by the council to the project."
It's expected 94 full-time equivalent jobs will be created during construction, along with 10 full-time equivalent ongoing jobs.
Ms Saffin said the project would make an important contribution to the region and the environment.
