❓ Mr. Waldron questions the Minister for Energy about electricity supply issues hindering regional development projects and seeks state funding for the Narrogin oil mallee bioenergy plant. The Minister responds with details of existing investments and funding commitments, highlighting the experimental nature and salinity control benefits of the Narrogin project.
AnsweredQoN 105Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
I refer to the Labor Party’s policy statement “A Fair Go For Regional WA”, which states that Labor is committed to securing a future for regional WA by attracting new investment and getting the environment right to allow real job creation. (1) Is the minister aware that significant projects in many regional towns are on hold owing to the lack of adequate electricity supply, including the Jerramungup industry group’s proposal to establish a $4 million stockfeed pellet mill in the town? (2) Is the minister aware that the list of projects in jeopardy also includes the Dalwallinu cedar processing facility and the establishment of a processing facility at Avon to process kaolin clay from Wickepin? (3) If so, what action will the minister take to help these towns secure a reliable energy source? (4) I have appreciated the meetings and ongoing discussions that I have had with the minister on the Narrogin oil mallee plant and was just advised at lunchtime today that we have federal funding for that plant. What level of funding can the State provide to the Narrogin oil mallee bioenergy plant to complete it to proof-of-concept stage, because the technology really has the potential to resolve some of the energy problems in the wheatbelt? Mr E.S. RIPPER
AnswerView source ↗
The member can see the $180 million-worth of common user infrastructure that is going in on the Burrup Peninsula. He knows that the regional development policy of the Labor Party is being implemented. Only yesterday in the south east the Premier announced a $1.4 million project, involving 1 000 construction jobs and 300 permanent jobs, supported by $18.4 million of state government infrastructure commitment. I have been advised by Western Power as follows with regard to the questions asked by the Deputy Leader of the National Party, and I thank him for giving me some notice of the question. (1) Western Power has held initial discussions with the proponents’ electrical consultant and has indicated what works would be necessary to ensure sufficient supply capacity. However, no formal application for a supply has been received. Mr M.W. Trenorden interjected. The SPEAKER: Order, Leader of the National Party! Mr E.S. RIPPER: To continue - (2) Based on the information provided, Western Power has not received formal application from these ventures for a power supply. (3) Western Power monitors normal load growth on the distribution network and incrementally upgrades supply capacity as required to supply the normal load growth. However, normal load growth does not usually cover new commercial industrial loads, which must apply to Western Power for connection. Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
(1) Is the minister aware that significant projects in many regional towns are on hold owing to the lack of adequate electricity supply, including the Jerramungup industry group’s proposal to establish a $4 million stockfeed pellet mill in the town? (2) Is the minister aware that the list of projects in jeopardy also includes the Dalwallinu cedar processing facility and the establishment of a processing facility at Avon to process kaolin clay from Wickepin? (3) If so, what action will the minister take to help these towns secure a reliable energy source? (4) I have appreciated the meetings and ongoing discussions that I have had with the minister on the Narrogin oil mallee plant and was just advised at lunchtime today that we have federal funding for that plant. What level of funding can the State provide to the Narrogin oil mallee bioenergy plant to complete it to proof-of-concept stage, because the technology really has the potential to resolve some of the energy problems in the wheatbelt? Mr E.S. RIPPER replied: The member can see the $180 million-worth of common user infrastructure that is going in on the Burrup Peninsula. He knows that the regional development policy of the Labor Party is being implemented. Only yesterday in the south east the Premier announced a $1.4 million project, involving 1 000 construction jobs and 300 permanent jobs, supported by $18.4 million of state government infrastructure commitment. I have been advised by Western Power as follows with regard to the questions asked by the Deputy Leader of the National Party, and I thank him for giving me some notice of the question. (1) Western Power has held initial discussions with the proponents’ electrical consultant and has indicated what works would be necessary to ensure sufficient supply capacity. However, no formal application for a supply has been received. Mr M.W. Trenorden interjected. The SPEAKER: Order, Leader of the National Party! Mr E.S. RIPPER: To continue - (2) Based on the information provided, Western Power has not received formal application from these ventures for a power supply. (3) Western Power monitors normal load growth on the distribution network and incrementally upgrades supply capacity as required to supply the normal load growth. However, normal load growth does not usually cover new commercial industrial loads, which must apply to Western Power for connection. Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
(2) Is the minister aware that the list of projects in jeopardy also includes the Dalwallinu cedar processing facility and the establishment of a processing facility at Avon to process kaolin clay from Wickepin? (3) If so, what action will the minister take to help these towns secure a reliable energy source? (4) I have appreciated the meetings and ongoing discussions that I have had with the minister on the Narrogin oil mallee plant and was just advised at lunchtime today that we have federal funding for that plant. What level of funding can the State provide to the Narrogin oil mallee bioenergy plant to complete it to proof-of-concept stage, because the technology really has the potential to resolve some of the energy problems in the wheatbelt? Mr E.S. RIPPER replied: The member can see the $180 million-worth of common user infrastructure that is going in on the Burrup Peninsula. He knows that the regional development policy of the Labor Party is being implemented. Only yesterday in the south east the Premier announced a $1.4 million project, involving 1 000 construction jobs and 300 permanent jobs, supported by $18.4 million of state government infrastructure commitment. I have been advised by Western Power as follows with regard to the questions asked by the Deputy Leader of the National Party, and I thank him for giving me some notice of the question. (1) Western Power has held initial discussions with the proponents’ electrical consultant and has indicated what works would be necessary to ensure sufficient supply capacity. However, no formal application for a supply has been received. Mr M.W. Trenorden interjected. The SPEAKER: Order, Leader of the National Party! Mr E.S. RIPPER: To continue - (2) Based on the information provided, Western Power has not received formal application from these ventures for a power supply. (3) Western Power monitors normal load growth on the distribution network and incrementally upgrades supply capacity as required to supply the normal load growth. However, normal load growth does not usually cover new commercial industrial loads, which must apply to Western Power for connection. Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
(3) If so, what action will the minister take to help these towns secure a reliable energy source? (4) I have appreciated the meetings and ongoing discussions that I have had with the minister on the Narrogin oil mallee plant and was just advised at lunchtime today that we have federal funding for that plant. What level of funding can the State provide to the Narrogin oil mallee bioenergy plant to complete it to proof-of-concept stage, because the technology really has the potential to resolve some of the energy problems in the wheatbelt? Mr E.S. RIPPER replied: The member can see the $180 million-worth of common user infrastructure that is going in on the Burrup Peninsula. He knows that the regional development policy of the Labor Party is being implemented. Only yesterday in the south east the Premier announced a $1.4 million project, involving 1 000 construction jobs and 300 permanent jobs, supported by $18.4 million of state government infrastructure commitment. I have been advised by Western Power as follows with regard to the questions asked by the Deputy Leader of the National Party, and I thank him for giving me some notice of the question. (1) Western Power has held initial discussions with the proponents’ electrical consultant and has indicated what works would be necessary to ensure sufficient supply capacity. However, no formal application for a supply has been received. Mr M.W. Trenorden interjected. The SPEAKER: Order, Leader of the National Party! Mr E.S. RIPPER: To continue - (2) Based on the information provided, Western Power has not received formal application from these ventures for a power supply. (3) Western Power monitors normal load growth on the distribution network and incrementally upgrades supply capacity as required to supply the normal load growth. However, normal load growth does not usually cover new commercial industrial loads, which must apply to Western Power for connection. Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
(4) I have appreciated the meetings and ongoing discussions that I have had with the minister on the Narrogin oil mallee plant and was just advised at lunchtime today that we have federal funding for that plant. What level of funding can the State provide to the Narrogin oil mallee bioenergy plant to complete it to proof-of-concept stage, because the technology really has the potential to resolve some of the energy problems in the wheatbelt? Mr E.S. RIPPER replied: The member can see the $180 million-worth of common user infrastructure that is going in on the Burrup Peninsula. He knows that the regional development policy of the Labor Party is being implemented. Only yesterday in the south east the Premier announced a $1.4 million project, involving 1 000 construction jobs and 300 permanent jobs, supported by $18.4 million of state government infrastructure commitment. I have been advised by Western Power as follows with regard to the questions asked by the Deputy Leader of the National Party, and I thank him for giving me some notice of the question. (1) Western Power has held initial discussions with the proponents’ electrical consultant and has indicated what works would be necessary to ensure sufficient supply capacity. However, no formal application for a supply has been received. Mr M.W. Trenorden interjected. The SPEAKER: Order, Leader of the National Party! Mr E.S. RIPPER: To continue - (2) Based on the information provided, Western Power has not received formal application from these ventures for a power supply. (3) Western Power monitors normal load growth on the distribution network and incrementally upgrades supply capacity as required to supply the normal load growth. However, normal load growth does not usually cover new commercial industrial loads, which must apply to Western Power for connection. Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
Mr E.S. RIPPER replied: The member can see the $180 million-worth of common user infrastructure that is going in on the Burrup Peninsula. He knows that the regional development policy of the Labor Party is being implemented. Only yesterday in the south east the Premier announced a $1.4 million project, involving 1 000 construction jobs and 300 permanent jobs, supported by $18.4 million of state government infrastructure commitment. I have been advised by Western Power as follows with regard to the questions asked by the Deputy Leader of the National Party, and I thank him for giving me some notice of the question. (1) Western Power has held initial discussions with the proponents’ electrical consultant and has indicated what works would be necessary to ensure sufficient supply capacity. However, no formal application for a supply has been received. Mr M.W. Trenorden interjected. The SPEAKER: Order, Leader of the National Party! Mr E.S. RIPPER: To continue - (2) Based on the information provided, Western Power has not received formal application from these ventures for a power supply. (3) Western Power monitors normal load growth on the distribution network and incrementally upgrades supply capacity as required to supply the normal load growth. However, normal load growth does not usually cover new commercial industrial loads, which must apply to Western Power for connection. Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
The member can see the $180 million-worth of common user infrastructure that is going in on the Burrup Peninsula. He knows that the regional development policy of the Labor Party is being implemented. Only yesterday in the south east the Premier announced a $1.4 million project, involving 1 000 construction jobs and 300 permanent jobs, supported by $18.4 million of state government infrastructure commitment. I have been advised by Western Power as follows with regard to the questions asked by the Deputy Leader of the National Party, and I thank him for giving me some notice of the question. (1) Western Power has held initial discussions with the proponents’ electrical consultant and has indicated what works would be necessary to ensure sufficient supply capacity. However, no formal application for a supply has been received. Mr M.W. Trenorden interjected. The SPEAKER: Order, Leader of the National Party! Mr E.S. RIPPER: To continue - (2) Based on the information provided, Western Power has not received formal application from these ventures for a power supply. (3) Western Power monitors normal load growth on the distribution network and incrementally upgrades supply capacity as required to supply the normal load growth. However, normal load growth does not usually cover new commercial industrial loads, which must apply to Western Power for connection. Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
(1) Western Power has held initial discussions with the proponents’ electrical consultant and has indicated what works would be necessary to ensure sufficient supply capacity. However, no formal application for a supply has been received. Mr M.W. Trenorden interjected. The SPEAKER: Order, Leader of the National Party! Mr E.S. RIPPER: To continue - (2) Based on the information provided, Western Power has not received formal application from these ventures for a power supply. (3) Western Power monitors normal load growth on the distribution network and incrementally upgrades supply capacity as required to supply the normal load growth. However, normal load growth does not usually cover new commercial industrial loads, which must apply to Western Power for connection. Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
Mr M.W. Trenorden interjected. The SPEAKER: Order, Leader of the National Party! Mr E.S. RIPPER: To continue - (2) Based on the information provided, Western Power has not received formal application from these ventures for a power supply. (3) Western Power monitors normal load growth on the distribution network and incrementally upgrades supply capacity as required to supply the normal load growth. However, normal load growth does not usually cover new commercial industrial loads, which must apply to Western Power for connection. Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
The SPEAKER: Order, Leader of the National Party! Mr E.S. RIPPER: To continue - (2) Based on the information provided, Western Power has not received formal application from these ventures for a power supply. (3) Western Power monitors normal load growth on the distribution network and incrementally upgrades supply capacity as required to supply the normal load growth. However, normal load growth does not usually cover new commercial industrial loads, which must apply to Western Power for connection. Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: To continue - (2) Based on the information provided, Western Power has not received formal application from these ventures for a power supply. (3) Western Power monitors normal load growth on the distribution network and incrementally upgrades supply capacity as required to supply the normal load growth. However, normal load growth does not usually cover new commercial industrial loads, which must apply to Western Power for connection. Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
(2) Based on the information provided, Western Power has not received formal application from these ventures for a power supply. (3) Western Power monitors normal load growth on the distribution network and incrementally upgrades supply capacity as required to supply the normal load growth. However, normal load growth does not usually cover new commercial industrial loads, which must apply to Western Power for connection. Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
(3) Western Power monitors normal load growth on the distribution network and incrementally upgrades supply capacity as required to supply the normal load growth. However, normal load growth does not usually cover new commercial industrial loads, which must apply to Western Power for connection. Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
(4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
(1) Is the minister aware that significant projects in many regional towns are on hold owing to the lack of adequate electricity supply, including the Jerramungup industry group’s proposal to establish a $4 million stockfeed pellet mill in the town? (2) Is the minister aware that the list of projects in jeopardy also includes the Dalwallinu cedar processing facility and the establishment of a processing facility at Avon to process kaolin clay from Wickepin? (3) If so, what action will the minister take to help these towns secure a reliable energy source? (4) I have appreciated the meetings and ongoing discussions that I have had with the minister on the Narrogin oil mallee plant and was just advised at lunchtime today that we have federal funding for that plant. What level of funding can the State provide to the Narrogin oil mallee bioenergy plant to complete it to proof-of-concept stage, because the technology really has the potential to resolve some of the energy problems in the wheatbelt? Mr E.S. RIPPER replied: The member can see the $180 million-worth of common user infrastructure that is going in on the Burrup Peninsula. He knows that the regional development policy of the Labor Party is being implemented. Only yesterday in the south east the Premier announced a $1.4 million project, involving 1 000 construction jobs and 300 permanent jobs, supported by $18.4 million of state government infrastructure commitment. I have been advised by Western Power as follows with regard to the questions asked by the Deputy Leader of the National Party, and I thank him for giving me some notice of the question. (1) Western Power has held initial discussions with the proponents’ electrical consultant and has indicated what works would be necessary to ensure sufficient supply capacity. However, no formal application for a supply has been received. Mr M.W. Trenorden interjected. The SPEAKER: Order, Leader of the National Party! Mr E.S. RIPPER: To continue - (2) Based on the information provided, Western Power has not received formal application from these ventures for a power supply. (3) Western Power monitors normal load growth on the distribution network and incrementally upgrades supply capacity as required to supply the normal load growth. However, normal load growth does not usually cover new commercial industrial loads, which must apply to Western Power for connection. Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
(2) Is the minister aware that the list of projects in jeopardy also includes the Dalwallinu cedar processing facility and the establishment of a processing facility at Avon to process kaolin clay from Wickepin? (3) If so, what action will the minister take to help these towns secure a reliable energy source? (4) I have appreciated the meetings and ongoing discussions that I have had with the minister on the Narrogin oil mallee plant and was just advised at lunchtime today that we have federal funding for that plant. What level of funding can the State provide to the Narrogin oil mallee bioenergy plant to complete it to proof-of-concept stage, because the technology really has the potential to resolve some of the energy problems in the wheatbelt? Mr E.S. RIPPER replied: The member can see the $180 million-worth of common user infrastructure that is going in on the Burrup Peninsula. He knows that the regional development policy of the Labor Party is being implemented. Only yesterday in the south east the Premier announced a $1.4 million project, involving 1 000 construction jobs and 300 permanent jobs, supported by $18.4 million of state government infrastructure commitment. I have been advised by Western Power as follows with regard to the questions asked by the Deputy Leader of the National Party, and I thank him for giving me some notice of the question. (1) Western Power has held initial discussions with the proponents’ electrical consultant and has indicated what works would be necessary to ensure sufficient supply capacity. However, no formal application for a supply has been received. Mr M.W. Trenorden interjected. The SPEAKER: Order, Leader of the National Party! Mr E.S. RIPPER: To continue - (2) Based on the information provided, Western Power has not received formal application from these ventures for a power supply. (3) Western Power monitors normal load growth on the distribution network and incrementally upgrades supply capacity as required to supply the normal load growth. However, normal load growth does not usually cover new commercial industrial loads, which must apply to Western Power for connection. Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
(3) If so, what action will the minister take to help these towns secure a reliable energy source? (4) I have appreciated the meetings and ongoing discussions that I have had with the minister on the Narrogin oil mallee plant and was just advised at lunchtime today that we have federal funding for that plant. What level of funding can the State provide to the Narrogin oil mallee bioenergy plant to complete it to proof-of-concept stage, because the technology really has the potential to resolve some of the energy problems in the wheatbelt? Mr E.S. RIPPER replied: The member can see the $180 million-worth of common user infrastructure that is going in on the Burrup Peninsula. He knows that the regional development policy of the Labor Party is being implemented. Only yesterday in the south east the Premier announced a $1.4 million project, involving 1 000 construction jobs and 300 permanent jobs, supported by $18.4 million of state government infrastructure commitment. I have been advised by Western Power as follows with regard to the questions asked by the Deputy Leader of the National Party, and I thank him for giving me some notice of the question. (1) Western Power has held initial discussions with the proponents’ electrical consultant and has indicated what works would be necessary to ensure sufficient supply capacity. However, no formal application for a supply has been received. Mr M.W. Trenorden interjected. The SPEAKER: Order, Leader of the National Party! Mr E.S. RIPPER: To continue - (2) Based on the information provided, Western Power has not received formal application from these ventures for a power supply. (3) Western Power monitors normal load growth on the distribution network and incrementally upgrades supply capacity as required to supply the normal load growth. However, normal load growth does not usually cover new commercial industrial loads, which must apply to Western Power for connection. Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
(4) I have appreciated the meetings and ongoing discussions that I have had with the minister on the Narrogin oil mallee plant and was just advised at lunchtime today that we have federal funding for that plant. What level of funding can the State provide to the Narrogin oil mallee bioenergy plant to complete it to proof-of-concept stage, because the technology really has the potential to resolve some of the energy problems in the wheatbelt? Mr E.S. RIPPER replied: The member can see the $180 million-worth of common user infrastructure that is going in on the Burrup Peninsula. He knows that the regional development policy of the Labor Party is being implemented. Only yesterday in the south east the Premier announced a $1.4 million project, involving 1 000 construction jobs and 300 permanent jobs, supported by $18.4 million of state government infrastructure commitment. I have been advised by Western Power as follows with regard to the questions asked by the Deputy Leader of the National Party, and I thank him for giving me some notice of the question. (1) Western Power has held initial discussions with the proponents’ electrical consultant and has indicated what works would be necessary to ensure sufficient supply capacity. However, no formal application for a supply has been received. Mr M.W. Trenorden interjected. The SPEAKER: Order, Leader of the National Party! Mr E.S. RIPPER: To continue - (2) Based on the information provided, Western Power has not received formal application from these ventures for a power supply. (3) Western Power monitors normal load growth on the distribution network and incrementally upgrades supply capacity as required to supply the normal load growth. However, normal load growth does not usually cover new commercial industrial loads, which must apply to Western Power for connection. Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
Mr E.S. RIPPER replied: The member can see the $180 million-worth of common user infrastructure that is going in on the Burrup Peninsula. He knows that the regional development policy of the Labor Party is being implemented. Only yesterday in the south east the Premier announced a $1.4 million project, involving 1 000 construction jobs and 300 permanent jobs, supported by $18.4 million of state government infrastructure commitment. I have been advised by Western Power as follows with regard to the questions asked by the Deputy Leader of the National Party, and I thank him for giving me some notice of the question. (1) Western Power has held initial discussions with the proponents’ electrical consultant and has indicated what works would be necessary to ensure sufficient supply capacity. However, no formal application for a supply has been received. Mr M.W. Trenorden interjected. The SPEAKER: Order, Leader of the National Party! Mr E.S. RIPPER: To continue - (2) Based on the information provided, Western Power has not received formal application from these ventures for a power supply. (3) Western Power monitors normal load growth on the distribution network and incrementally upgrades supply capacity as required to supply the normal load growth. However, normal load growth does not usually cover new commercial industrial loads, which must apply to Western Power for connection. Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
The member can see the $180 million-worth of common user infrastructure that is going in on the Burrup Peninsula. He knows that the regional development policy of the Labor Party is being implemented. Only yesterday in the south east the Premier announced a $1.4 million project, involving 1 000 construction jobs and 300 permanent jobs, supported by $18.4 million of state government infrastructure commitment. I have been advised by Western Power as follows with regard to the questions asked by the Deputy Leader of the National Party, and I thank him for giving me some notice of the question. (1) Western Power has held initial discussions with the proponents’ electrical consultant and has indicated what works would be necessary to ensure sufficient supply capacity. However, no formal application for a supply has been received. Mr M.W. Trenorden interjected. The SPEAKER: Order, Leader of the National Party! Mr E.S. RIPPER: To continue - (2) Based on the information provided, Western Power has not received formal application from these ventures for a power supply. (3) Western Power monitors normal load growth on the distribution network and incrementally upgrades supply capacity as required to supply the normal load growth. However, normal load growth does not usually cover new commercial industrial loads, which must apply to Western Power for connection. Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
(1) Western Power has held initial discussions with the proponents’ electrical consultant and has indicated what works would be necessary to ensure sufficient supply capacity. However, no formal application for a supply has been received. Mr M.W. Trenorden interjected. The SPEAKER: Order, Leader of the National Party! Mr E.S. RIPPER: To continue - (2) Based on the information provided, Western Power has not received formal application from these ventures for a power supply. (3) Western Power monitors normal load growth on the distribution network and incrementally upgrades supply capacity as required to supply the normal load growth. However, normal load growth does not usually cover new commercial industrial loads, which must apply to Western Power for connection. Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
Mr M.W. Trenorden interjected. The SPEAKER: Order, Leader of the National Party! Mr E.S. RIPPER: To continue - (2) Based on the information provided, Western Power has not received formal application from these ventures for a power supply. (3) Western Power monitors normal load growth on the distribution network and incrementally upgrades supply capacity as required to supply the normal load growth. However, normal load growth does not usually cover new commercial industrial loads, which must apply to Western Power for connection. Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
The SPEAKER: Order, Leader of the National Party! Mr E.S. RIPPER: To continue - (2) Based on the information provided, Western Power has not received formal application from these ventures for a power supply. (3) Western Power monitors normal load growth on the distribution network and incrementally upgrades supply capacity as required to supply the normal load growth. However, normal load growth does not usually cover new commercial industrial loads, which must apply to Western Power for connection. Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: To continue - (2) Based on the information provided, Western Power has not received formal application from these ventures for a power supply. (3) Western Power monitors normal load growth on the distribution network and incrementally upgrades supply capacity as required to supply the normal load growth. However, normal load growth does not usually cover new commercial industrial loads, which must apply to Western Power for connection. Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
(2) Based on the information provided, Western Power has not received formal application from these ventures for a power supply. (3) Western Power monitors normal load growth on the distribution network and incrementally upgrades supply capacity as required to supply the normal load growth. However, normal load growth does not usually cover new commercial industrial loads, which must apply to Western Power for connection. Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
(3) Western Power monitors normal load growth on the distribution network and incrementally upgrades supply capacity as required to supply the normal load growth. However, normal load growth does not usually cover new commercial industrial loads, which must apply to Western Power for connection. Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
Mr C.J. Barnett: Why? Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: The Leader of the Opposition knows why, because he presided over exactly the same situation. Western Power’s reply states - Where there is a capacity shortage in the case of a prospective commercial loan, significant reinforcements may be required in excess of what is needed to supply normal load growth, and a capital contribution in accordance with supply extension policies is sought. That is a very important point, because the supply extension policies of Western Power are exactly the same supply extension policies that applied when the National Party was in government and when the Leader of the Opposition was Minister for Energy. Those supply policies provide for Western Power to offset a proportion of the capital cost of an upgrade against increased revenue, and we have a $75 million regional investment fund - Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
Mr M.W. Trenorden: For the Burrup. Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: In addition to the Burrup expenditure that members opposite did not have when they were in government. (4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
(4) I have also been asked about the Narrogin oil mallee plant and the integrated wood processing plant. I want to make three important points about that plant: first, it is an experimental plant and its workability is yet to be demonstrated; second, it produces renewable energy but it is equally as important for its potential impact through the promotion of oil mallee plantations on salinity control; third, regrettably, the cost of the plant has blown out due to the necessity for design changes on what is an experimental plant. Western Power has already spent $9.2 million on this project, and has committed a further $3.75 million. It has provisionally secured a further $1 million from the Australian Greenhouse Office and it has other applications in process with the federal Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Natural Heritage Trust. I very much hope that all those applications for commonwealth funding support, for what is an important land care project, will be successful. Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
Mr T.K. Waldron: It has today. I was advised at lunch time. Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
Mr E.S. RIPPER: I am pleased that the member has received separate advice that some of these funds might be forthcoming. I have already said to the member, and I will say it again, publicly: if the funds available from the Commonwealth are not sufficient in addition to those already committed by Western Power, I am happy to talk to my ministerial colleagues about the impact of this project on salinity, and we will discuss what additional assistance might be available. Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
Finally, Western Power will spend $1.2 billion over the next five years on electrical infrastructure in the south west interconnected system, and a very big proportion of that money will be spent outside the metropolitan area.
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