A MICROGRID that will use solar power and hydrogen technology to provide clean and reliable energy north of the Daintree River has received support from the Douglas Shire Council.
Council today resolved to support the Federal Government’s Daintree Microgrid project, and acknowledged the need for reliable and clean energy for residents and businesses in the World Heritage-listed rainforest.
There is currently no mains power grid north of the Daintree River to Cape Tribulation, with the exception of a few locations directly across from Daintree Village.
Businesses and residents are responsible for their own energy needs and many use outdated, unreliable and polluting diesel generators
Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr said the Council support sends an important signal to ratepayers and the energy market.
“The Federal Government solution will provide an essential service which businesses and residents have a right to,” he said.
“The proposed microgrid will be positive for the environment as energy users move away from older polluting technologies.
“Businesses will also become more competitive through the access to reliable energy at an affordable price.”
The Federal Government is currently developing a plan for the installation of advanced microgrid technology that will use a combination of solar power and hydrogen technology to provide clean and reliable energy.
Connections to the system will be voluntary.
Council officers will support the study by providing information and allowing access to Council property and infrastructure.
