The Maryvale Energy from Waste (EfW) project has received a $48.2 million grant through the Australian government’s Modern Manufacturing Initiative (MMI).
Darren Chester, member for Gippsland confirmed the grant at Opan Australian Paper’s Maryvale Mill, where the EfW facility will be co-located.
The Maryvale EfW facility will reduce the site’s reliance on gas and electricity, and assist in securing its energy requirements into the future.
The EfW facility will process 325,000 tonnes of residual waste, recovering energy that would otherwise be lose to landfill.
It will reduce net greenhouse gas emissions in Victoria by an estimated 270,000 tonnes annually, and provide a sustainable efficient waste management solution aligned to the circular economy.
Speaking on behalf of the consortium, including partners Veolia and Masdar Tribe Australia, David Jettner, general manager for Opal Corporate Development and Strategic Projects, said the grant reflects the government’s commitment to regional Australia.
“This $48.2 million grant demonstrates the Federal government’s confidence in our facility and transformational manufacturing infrastructure projects,” Jettner said.
“With half of the project’s waste supply already committed, we are securing the remaining volume required through numerous council tender processes currently underway in metro Melbourne and regional Victoria.
“We expect to move to financial close for the project in the second half of 2022, so that construction can begin.”
He said the Maryvale EfW project is aligned with the principles of circular economy, and will bring alternative energy technology to Gippsland, and that It will offer local and metropolitan councils and commercial customers a competitive waste management solution that will divert waste from landfill, reduce emissions, and deliver a range of social benefits.
The project investment of $600 million will create 500 jobs in Victoria and Gippsland during the construction phase, and support 450 Victorian jobs, including flow on once operational.
Construction is planned to commence in 2022, with the facility starting operations in late 2025.
