Power plan for SA sawdust
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A sawmill owner is spending $30 million to turn wood waste into green power.
OneFortyOne has announced a substantial investment in renewable biomass power generation at its Jubilee Sawmill.
The $30 million initiative, expected to be operational by 2026, is part of a larger $90 million upgrade that includes the installation of a new boiler and steam turbine.
The Jubilee Sawmill, which began generating electricity in 1956, played a key role in supplying power to Mount Gambier until the 1970s.
With the latest investment, the sawmill should once again become a significant energy producer, generating more than enough electricity to power its operations.
The biomass power generation system will leverage repurposed wood fibre, turning a potential waste product into a source of energy.
The excess electricity will be fed back into the grid, or could be utilised to electrify future operations, such as forklifts and trucks.
OneFortyOne forecasts a 50 per cent reduction in its overall emissions and an 85 per cent reduction in Scope 2 emissions specifically.
The project should also avoid over 9,000 tonnes of CO2-equivalent emissions compared to 2021 levels, while generating approximately 43,800 MWh of renewable electricity annually.
Wendy Norris, CEO of OneFortyOne, says there is a dual benefit of the project for both the company’s sustainability goals and future operational needs.
“The need to replace our current boiler, which is reaching the end of its life, presented us with a unique opportunity to rethink how we utilise steam and consume electricity at our site,” she said.
“This investment not only supports our decarbonisation goals but also positions us for future opportunities in renewable energy.”
South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas has welcomed the announcement.
“This investment into one of South Australia’s most significant industries is exciting for our State. It promises longevity of technology, reduced carbon emissions, and renewable energy contributions to the grid,” he said.