Renewable thermal solution provides green alternative for gas-hungry industries

By Andrew Spence A novel blend of old and new technology is helping Australian researchers combine renewable energy and low-cost thermal storage to deliver heat for industrial processes. Developed at the University of South Australia in Adelaide, the method involves using low cost renewable energy such as wind or solar PV to power electrical elements that heat rocks in…

Private equity to back manufacturing?

Analysis by Peter Roberts The Australian Financial Review has an extraordinarily tantalising piece of gossip today which, if confirmed, will mark a milestone for private equity investment in manufacturing. Normally PE suppliers take positions in manufacturers under strain, only to onsell the businesses after stripping them of assets and offshoring operations. Few genuine PE investments…

New navy shipbuilding milestones

The federal government’s naval shipbuilding plans are ramping up with progress building massive new facilities in Adelaide, and the laying down of the keel of the first Arafura class offshore patrol vessel (OPV). Defence announced more than 50 tonnes of Australian steel has been assembled at Osborne Naval Shipyard in Adelaide marking the official completion…