Photo caption: Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton (right) met with Fletcher International Exports director Roger Fletcher to discuss how the High Energy Using Business grant will help the company reduce its energy costs.
One of Australia’s largest integrated processors and exporters of lamb and sheep meat products will be able to cut its energy costs as the business expands, thanks to a Federal Government grant.
Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton said the Dubbo-based Fletcher International Exports has received $25,000 to improve its condenser tower efficiency through the Federal Government’s Energy Efficient Communities Program – High Energy Using Business Grants.
“For businesses like Fletcher International Exports, which is the largest private employer in Dubbo, energy costs make up a large part of their operating expenses,” Mr Coulton said.
“In fact, refrigeration is responsible for more than half of Fletcher International Exports’ energy consumption. This grant will enable the family-owned company to improve its refrigeration capability – a necessary upgrade as it expands its processing capacity and increases production.
“Supporting industry in the Parkes electorate to reinvest in their businesses, grow, thrive and employ more Australians has never been more important.”
Fletcher International Exports director Roger Fletcher said this grant will help them to upgrade their existing refrigeration infrastructure through the installation of variable speed drives (VSDs) and a program overhaul.
“We anticipate the refrigeration plants’ energy consumption will shrink by 30 per cent through the installation of VSDs to 11 motors,” Mr Fletcher said.
“This upgrade will ensure we can handle increased refrigeration loads, prolong refrigeration equipment lifespan and reduce our energy consumption, generating financial savings and upholding our sustainability principles.”
The Energy Efficient Communities Program was announced as part of the Government’s $3.5 billion Climate Solutions Package to deliver on Australia’s 2030 climate commitments.
The full list of successful applicants for the high energy using business grants is available at business.gov.au