Solar power gives miners' homes a brighter future

Rio Tinto Coal Australia's will install solar hot water systems on its homes in Emerald to reduce its carbon footprint.

Rio Tinto Coal Australia is spending more than $700,000 to fit-out 147 of its houses in Emerald that are owned by Kestrel Mine.

The move will save 235 tonnes of carbon dioxide each year, which has the same effect as removing 43 cars from the roads.

Tony Lennox, General Manager Operations of Kestrel Mine, said the decision to make the switch was environmental as well as financial.

"Rio Tinto Coal Australia recognises global warming is a serious issue; whenever we consider a business case for any new project we not only weigh up the cost but evaluate whether it is being done in the most sustainable manner," Mr Lennox said.

"At Kestrel Mine, we are doing what we can to reduce our impact on the environment; our plans for an extension are designed to minimise electricity use and reduce water usage on site.

"Extending these principles to our company-owned houses was a natural progression.

"The project will also provide financial savings through reduced maintenance on old, existing electric hot water systems."

Peter Ross, General Manager of hot water system installer Power Saving Centre, said the systems were the most efficient available.

"They boast the very latest technology and can save an average household in Central Queensland well over 90 per cent of their hot water heating costs," Mr Ross said.

Media Enquiries:
Nathan Scholz
07 3361 4354 / 0417 613 174

Media release: Solar power gives miners' homes a brighter future [PDF: 25 KB]