News

Australian Government Gives $1.0 Million Grant to Solar Cell Manufacturing Operation

May 09, 2001 by Jeff Shepard

The Australian government reports that it is supporting a process that may drop the price of solar energy. A titania-dye solar-cell manufacturing operation has been opened in Queanbeyan, Australia, by Sustainable Technologies International. The $12 million project has received a $1 million grant from the Federal Renewable Energy Commercialisation Program.

Titania-dye solar cells are claimed to be able to generate electricity in low light, shade and varying temperatures. Developers of the technology maintain that it has the capacity to provide low-cost solar energy supplies to building and remote areas, as well as providing significant environmental benefits.

“Development of the Australian technology is an excellent example of Australian innovation and the success of the government's package of greenhouse response measures," said Senator Nick Minchin, minister for industry, science and resources.