Major players in the rising renewable energy industry will meet in the Sunshine Coast later this month to discuss the region’s potential.
The visit will include a guided tour of Sunshine Coast solar as well as the chance to meet local business owners, and is the direct result of council’s recent investment mission to Melbourne.
Led by Economic Development and Entrepreneurship Portfolio councillor Lew Brennan, delegates on the mission met with officials from 25 companies and showcased why the Sunshine Coast was an ideal location for them to do business.
“We had drawn up a list of about 25 Cleantech companies as a result of our earlier research,” Cr Brennan said.
“While we were looking to promote the Sunshine Coast as a great investment opportunity, we also wanted to ensure they were aware there is an expanding clean technology and renewable energy sector in the region – demonstrating our credentials as a place where this industry can flourish.
“At the same time, we also wanted to look after the interests of the businesses in this sector that are already in the region.”
Cr Brennan said many of the businesses had previously viewed the Sunshine Coast purely as a holiday destination and were surprised to find that it had great potential for generation of renewable energy.
“They were surprised at our growing economy, competitive business conditions compared with those of other states, our technological know-how, our population of more than 330,000 and heading for 500,000 and our new business incentive scheme,” he said.
“We also advised them we have the largest take-up of solar PV in the nation.
“We left them with the very clear understanding that we are a council prepared to work with the Cleantech industries to grow and succeed – something that few councils have their head around.”
Council CEO John Knaggs said the investment mission had drawn considerable interest from renewable energy companies who were now looking to investigate Sunshine Coast solar business opportunities.
“We are also expecting some of the Melbourne businesses to attend our Clean Futures Conference here on the Coast on October 28, when we will have a chance to show them first-hand what Sunshine Coast solar has to offer.”
by Australian Solar Quotes
