EnviroMission Australia is reportedly in negotiations with construction giant Baulderstone Hornibrook in order to pursue its plans for a giant solar powered convection tower that would be used to generate electricity.
The Melbourne-based company is in negotiations with Baulderstone after negotiations with Leighton Contractors came to an end following their 2002 agreement.
The original concept would have seen a 1km high tower generating 200 MW of capacity when built but these plans have now been revised down to a 500 m tower capable of producing 50 MW. A solar collector will surround the base of the tower and allow air to be heated which will then rise through to tower to drive turbines.
EnviroMission is to apply for government funding through the Low Emission Technology Development Fund (LETDF), a bid which if successful could see construction commence in late 2006 or early 2007.