This report builds on previous projects for the MLA that have separately assessed the renewable energy and energy efficiency potential in the industry, focusing on particular waste streams or generation technologies. Here we take a case study approach, focussing on four particular facilities, that focuses on the opportunities for renewable energy within the context of the Renewable Energy Target (RET), the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting System (NGERS) and potential carbon markets.

This report is produced in conjunction with a supplementary report, Carbon Markets and their Relevance to the Meat Processing Industry. It firstly provides an overview of the Kyoto Protocol, the proposed Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (CPRS) and the NGERS. It then explains in some detail what these mean for the Australian meat processing industry, in terms of both direct and indirect impacts, including what emissions are covered under NGERS and the CPRS, how the liable entity is defined, their obligations and possible cost impacts. It then outlines the various options meat processors have to reduce their liabilities and costs under both NGERS and the CPRS, focussing on energy efficiency, renewable energy, and purchase of Australian permits, international certificates and derivatives.