By being home to the world's first solar tower, Australia is scaling new heights in its quest for tapping renewable energy resources. The one-kilometre-high structure would generate electricity to cater to a population of more than 0.2 million people. It will heat air at its base through the use of a transparent 'solar collector'.
The country's federal industry minister, Ian Macfarlane, reveals that the programme has been granted 'major project facilitation' status -- which defines proposals of national significance and ensures streamlined decision making for necessary government approvals. EnviroMission Limited, the company that is handling the construction work, has proposed an investment of us $431.2 million for the tower which is due to become operational in south west New South Wales by 2005.
According to Macfarlane, the project confirms Australia as a world leader in renewable energy production aimed at reducing greenhouse gases. The Australian government's mandated target requires electricity retailers to supply 9,500 gigawatt hours (gwh) per year from renewable sources by 2010. The solar tower would generate about 650 gwh per annum.
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