By BRIDGET COOK
A CANNONS Creek business has been awarded a grant to explore new technology to cater to a market need.
Hastings MP Neale Burgess announced last week that specialty construction company Karora Living had been awarded a Technology Development voucher worth $50,000 as part of a State Government’s program.
Mr Burgess said the award would enable Karora Living to work with Planet Innovation to create an affordable integrated air-conditioning and ventilation system.
“Developing this new integrated air-conditioning system could enhance or replace traditional wall mounted split system units,” he said.
“The new unit will have the intelligence to prioritise the use of fresh air, manage indoor air temperature and dramatically improve indoor air quality while maximising energy efficiency.”
John Edgley, from Karora Living, said his company was constantly seeking commercially viable ways to make long-term sustainable solutions available to everyone at an affordable price.
“There is no technical reason why a net-zero energy home that’s safe, healthy and smart isn’t available today to your average home buyer,” he said.
“This voucher is a huge help to continue that work and keep the focus on building the business right here in Victoria.”
Planet Innovation managing director Stuart Elliot thanked the State Government for the support.
“Planet Innovation welcomes the support of the State Government for ventures like this that are commercially focused and draw on Victorian companies to innovate and deliver products that fill a market need,” he said.
Minister for Technology Gordon Rich-Phillips said the program supported projects that involved the development of new technology or explored the application of existing technologies in innovative or novel ways.
“The Technology Development vouchers provide much-needed support for companies to develop, adapt or adopt new products and processes using industrial biotechnology, small technologies or advanced information and communication technology,” he said.
“This is a responsive funding model to drive the use of cutting-edge technologies, enabling Victoria’s companies to compete in today’s global economy.”
For more information on the program visit www.business.vic.gov.au/tvp.