The State Government’s proposal to convert the former Mitsubishi site into a ‘green hub’ is a critical step towards a true sustainability industry, according to the Property Council of Australia’s South Australian Division.
SA Division Executive Director Nathan Paine says the Property Council had long advocated for a precinct-based approach to nurturing a ‘cleantech’ industry to leverage South Australia’s natural advantages in renewable energy.
“Through a myriad of reports, reviews, studies and submissions over the past year we have built the case that South Australia is well placed for the creation of a cleantech industry,” Mr Paine said.
“Our most recent report, The Three Ps: People, Productivity and Place, suggested that the Tonsley Park site be given over a renewables research and education cluster, precisely as has been announced today.
“There has been a lot of talk globally about the economic value of the renewables, or cleantech sector; this announcement today is a tangible step towards creating the first such industry in Australia.
“Our great state is already enjoying the benefits of growth in our resource and defence industries, and cleantech will further enhance the state’s economic diversity.
“This proposal also ensures that critical employment lands in Adelaide’s south continue to generate an economic output, which benefits the south as well as the state as a whole.
“It is great to see that the Rann Labor Government supports our proposal, and we hope to see more ideas teased out from both the Government and the Opposition as the election approaches."
