The Tasmanian Government has officially opened the new Entura Clean Energy and Water Institute, which it says will strengthen the state’s position as a leader in renewable energy.

 

Premier Lara Giddings and State Minister for Energy Resources, Bryan Green, officially opened the centre at Cambridge.

 

Ms Giddings said Hydro Tasmania and its consulting subsidiary, Entura, had built a strong reputation for quality training both interstate and overseas.

 

"Tasmania's renewable energy credentials have been proven over many decades both through hydroelectric schemes and, more recently, wind projects like Woolnorth, Musselroe and the massive TasWind project which is now being explored," Ms Giddings said.

 

Mr Green said one of the Government's key objectives for energy reform is to maximise the value of Tasmania's low carbon advantage and the brand benefits of clean energy.

 

"This project delivers on that objective by using the lessons learned in over 100 years of business to tap into the huge demand for sustainable energy both interstate and overseas.

 

"Having extensively toured Hydro Tasmania's operations, including Musselroe and most recently the King Island, Renewable Energy Integration Project I have constantly been impressed by the skill and passion of Hydro employees.

 

"With such a strong and skilled workforce, it is no surprise that Hydro and Entura have managed to tap into an emerging international market for renewable energy expertise."

 

Courses will be delivered by technical experts within the Entura and Hydro Tasmania business, and by strategic partners in the venture including the University of Tasmania and the Asian Institute of Technology.