Released 04/01/2019
A collaborative co-working space for fostering the development of clean energy technology within the ACT attracted more than 25 innovative companies and held 85 events in its first year, Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability Shane Rattenbury announced today.
“The Renewables Innovation Hub, or ‘the Hub’ as it is affectionately known, has helped ensure the ACT remains at the forefront in renewables innovation through the development of a strong renewable energy ecosystem,” Mr Rattenbury said.
“Forward thinking companies from across Australia – and the world – have been able to set up their businesses at the Hub, allowing them to connect with renewable energy industry leaders through workshops, seminars and briefings by industry and research leaders. During 2017, its first year of operation, 85 events were held with more than 2000 people attending. The Hub can only go from strength to strength in 2018.
“The Hub has helped foster the development and acceleration of a number of progressive start-ups – including a solar forecasting company, which now has more than 100 users across four continents.
“The Hub has supported a range of startups working on exciting projects including developing new hydrogen fuel cells and improved concentrated solar technology. It has also provided a local base for major international renewable energy firms including Neoen and Global Power Generation Australia.
“Already, around 2,000 megawatts of renewables around the world are managed right here in Canberra’s renewables precinct, and this is expected to grow to more than 8,000 megawatts by 2020.”
Mr Rattenbury said the Hub has evolved into the focal point for the renewables community, which continues to attract interest from major renewable energy investors.
“The ACT is forging strong relationships with progressive cities and businesses around the world who are committed to showing leadership and taking strong action on global warming.
“The Renewables Innovation Hub is also helping drive new opportunities for Canberra’s renewables community by exploring partnerships with similar co-working spaces around the world – from Singapore to Hawaii.
“This is helping the ACT Government deliver on its commitment to reach 100% renewable electricity by 2020 and zero net emissions by 2050 at the latest, through innovation and the development of new clean technology industries in a sector worth an estimated $20 trillion by 2050.”
The Hub was established in 2016 through the industry funded $12 million Renewable Energy Innovation Fund which also supports trades training, research partnerships and innovative technology demonstration projects.
For more information on the Renewables Innovation Hub please visit http://www.2degreeshub.com/
- Statement ends -
Shane Rattenbury, MLA | Media Releases
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