The Western Australian (WA) government will upgrade the energy and water infrastructure of Rottnest Island to $ 62 million (43.7 million) from the following state budgets with the aim of operating tourist destinations with 75% renewable energy: I promised (US dollars).
According to the government release On Friday, as ecotourism is a growing sector and more and more travelers are choosing destinations with an emphasis on environmental sustainability, Rottnest has eco-credentials to meet that demand. It is a growing Class A nature reserve.
The Kojima19 km (12 miles) from the coast of Perth, a protected nature reserve within easy ferry access, rich in flora and fauna, including quokka, a small marsupial unique to southwestern Washington. Inhabits.
Western Australia Prime Minister Mark Magawan said powering Rottnest with 75% renewable energy would be a big win.
“A significant reduction in emissions is a huge boost to the efficient operation of the island, which in turn benefits local businesses, operators and visitors,” he said.
“These infrastructure enhancements will occur at key times when the island is expected to grow in the future as WA reconnects with the world.”
New funding will increase wind energy capacity and efficiency by expanding existing solar farms near the airport to double current generation capacity and replacing existing wind turbine generators with two smaller modern units. Aims to reduce the island’s reliance on fossil fuels.
In addition, the distribution network will be upgraded and a working-scale battery storage solution will be installed.
These measures include the phasing out of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) on the island and the consideration of renewable resources for the island’s vehicles. It is estimated that this will avoid 4,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually.
This investment comes after the Government of Western Australia previously allocated $ 31 million to upgrade the island’s aging water supply and road network, increasing the island’s water capacity and reducing water losses due to leaks. , And is being promoted as an improvement in firefighting capacity.
Tourism Minister Roger Cook said Rottnest Island is the jewel of Western Australia’s tourism crown, the destination of choice for Western Australians, and a drawcard for interstate and international travelers. Said.
“We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to replace the island’s aging and critical infrastructure, some of which dates back more than 40 years,” he said.
“This investment by the McGowan government shows how to provide sustainable tourism on a large scale in Western Australia.”
follow
Steve is a Sydney-based Australian reporter with sports, arts and politics. He is an experienced English teacher, a qualified nutritionist, a sports enthusiast, and an amateur musician. Contact him at [email protected]