“This is wonderful news for the people of Port Augusta who have campaigned for years for a clean alternative to their old dirty coal power station,” said Craig Wilkins, Chief Executive of Conservation SA and a proud member of the Repower Port Augusta Alliance.

“Solar thermal is such a smart option. It provides reliable power from the sun and desperately needed jobs, and will push power prices down by increasing competition into the SA market.

“Even better, it positions South Australia, and Port Augusta in particular, as a real hub of clean energy innovation.

“Huge congratulations to all the MPs from a wide range of parties and local councillors who have supported this project.

“Today’s announcement by Premier Weatherill was the last piece of the puzzle,” he said.

“However, this wouldn’t have happened without the extraordinary multi-year community campaign led by Repower Port Augusta. With tireless energy and smart campaigning they have created history by bringing the largest plant of its kind in the world to Port Augusta.

“South Australia’s future is in clean power. The sooner we transition away from fossil fuels the better.

“Today’s announcement is an exciting leap forward in that direction,” said Mr Wilkins.

Release ends
Further comment: Craig Wilkins, 0417 879 439