Archived News for Energy Sector Professionals - August, 2012
A new report by Geoscience Australia and the Northern Territory Geological Survey has identified potential uranium and geothermal energy-related resources in the southern part of the Northern Territory.
The assessment has been conducted in the region by combining newly acquired deep earth imaging, seismic data with geological and geochemical data. It identified potential for uranium-rich iron oxide-copper-gold deposits in the southern Aileron Province south of Tanami and Tennant Creek.
The area is currently being actively explored for iron oxide-copper-gold mineralisation and has potential as a future mineral province.
Engineer develops electricity-free home cooling system
A researcher at the Queensland University of Technology is developing a solar cooling and heating system for the home that will run independently of the electricity grid and generate domestic hot water as a by-product.
Final National Solar Schools grants announced
The final round of grants under the National Solar Schools Program has been announced, resulting in nearly 60% of primary and secondary schools across Australia now having received more than $217 million to install renewable energy, rainwater tanks and boost energy efficiency on campus.
New lab to improve building heating and cooling
University of Sydney researchers will be looking for ways to slash energy consumption for the heating and cooling of buildings at Australia's first comfort laboratory, a research facility that will also improve homes and workplaces in Australia and internationally.
Senate to inquire into electricity prices
A Senate Select Committee on Electricity Prices has been formed by Parliament to undertake a detailed inquiry into the key causes of electricity price increases over recent years and those likely in the future.
Victorian Planning Framework thwarts wind energy future
Australia’s clean energy goals could be thwarted by recent amendments to the Victorian Planning Framework for wind farm developments, a study by the University of Melbourne Law School has found.
BHP Billiton sells Yeellrrie
BHP Billiton has announced the sale of its wholly owned Yeelrrie uranium desposit in Western Australia to Cameco Corporation for US$430 million.
Government outlines ETS integration
Federal Minister for Climate Change and Energy Efficiency, Greg Cobmet, and the European Commissioner for Climate Action, Connie Hedegaard, have announced that Australia and Europe will be linking their emissions trading systems.
WA releases energy strategy
The Western Australian Government has released its Strategic Energy Initiative blueprint, setting out the state’s long-term development of the state’s energy sector.
AEMC calls for powers to set prices
The Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) has proposed new rules to better equip the regulators to set prices so that ‘consumers don’t pay more than necessary for reliable supplies of energy and gas.’
Roofing critical to household energy consumption
Recent research shows that the choice of roof material has a significant impact of household energy expenditure through its impact on the internal temperature of the home.
Tinkler Group aborts Whitehaven bid
Tinkler Group has announced it has pulled out of its $5.3 billion takeover bid for Whitehaven coal, ending a month of speculation over the future of the company.
Victoria announces fraccing moratorium
The Victorian Government has announced a moratorium on all hydraulic fracturing as part of a suite of reforms aimed at providing greater certainty on the impacts of the coal seam gas industry’s effects on the environment.
Panel of seven assist in allocating millions
The Federal Government has announced the appointment of seven leading businessmen to assist Innovation Australia in delivering $200 million worth of grants under the Clean Technology Innovation Program.
Government approves Alpha mine
The Federal Government has announced its approval of the Alpha coal mine and associated rail works in Queensland, paving the way for construction of the country's largest coal mine.
WA announces key Western Power appointments
The Western Australian Government has approved the appointment of Alan Mulgrew as the new Chairman of the Western Power Board.
EPA satisfied over Yallourn Mine discharge
The Victorian Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has found that discharges from the Yallourn Mine are having no serious effects on the surrounding lakes and waterways.
GE announces clean tech innovation challenge
GE has announced a $10 million funding initiative to help find, fund and bring to market technological innovations that help the company reduce its carbon footprint.
Yancoal posts first results
Newly ASX listed coal miner Yancoal has posted its first half year ASX report, posing a $415.7 million after tax for the 2011-12 year, while admitting that adverse market conditions may hamper its growth.
Australia Institute calls for more CSG research
A new report released by the Australia Institute has warned that the country risks significantly underestimating its contribution to global climate change if it fails to adequately measure fugitive emissions from coal seam gas wellheads.