Carbon price helps food processer cut emissions and energy costs

A $1.17 million Clean Technology Food and Foundries Investment Program grant, funded from carbon-price revenue, will help Primo Smallgoods to reduce emissions and slash energy costs.

The grant was announced yesterday by Prime Minister Julia Gillard during her visit to Primo Smallgoods’ facility in Wacol, Queensland.

During the visit, the Prime Minister highlighted the opportunities available to Australian food processors, particularly in Asia, and how the Gillard government will assist food processors better access these opportunities.

Part of the Gillard government’s $1 billion Plan for Australian Jobs includes the creation of a food precinct to assist food processors to build the critical mass, business capability and export readiness needed to take advantage of industry growth opportunities.

The government is also assisting food processors improve competitiveness through the Clean Technology Food and Foundries Investment Program.

Primo Smallgoods will partner with the Labor government to cut its energy costs by $1.4 million per year and reduce energy-emissions intensity across the four sites by 19%. The company will contribute a further $2.54 million towards the projects.

The Minister for Industry and Innovation, Greg Combet, said the grant was another example of an Australian company making smart investments in new equipment to reduce their energy emissions, reduce energy costs and make their business more sustainable.

Primo Smallgoods will replace and upgrade lighting, air conditioning and water-heating equipment at its four meat processing sites in NSW at Scone, Chullora, Greenacre and Prestons.

“Through the Clean Technology Investment Programs, the government is helping manufacturers and food producers - like Primo Smallgoods - transform their operations by investing in energy-efficient equipment and processes,” Combet said.

For more information, companies should contact AusIndustry on 13 28 46 or visit www.ausindustry.gov.au.