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Victoria ’s credentials as a leader in the development of clean, sustainable and renewable energy have been internationally recognised, with Melbourne winning the right to host the World Geothermal Congress in 2015.

Energy and Resources Minister, Peter Batchelor, said Victoria ’s potential to generate clean electricity from hot rocks deep underground would be showcased to the world at the Congress, which is expected to attract more than 1,500 delegates from 65 countries.

“A clean environment is crucial to our future, so to be hosting the world’s leading experts on geothermal energy is a great result for Victoria and underscores our commitment to ensuring Victoria is a leader in renewable and clean energy development,” Mr Batchelor said.

“It also reinforces Melbourne ’s reputation as a conference capital.”

The Congress, which was secured by the Melbourne Convention + Visitors Bureau (MCVB) with local geothermal bodies, including the Australian Geothermal Energy Group and the Australian Geothermal Energy Association, will be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

MCVB’s CEO, Ms Sandra Chipchase, said the Congress will see Melbourne become an international hub for yet another area of scientific expertise.

“This conference will bring the world’s pre-eminent scientists and researchers to Melbourne to discuss a range of topics relating to geothermal energy, including the latest in production sustainability, the environmental benefits of utilising this energy source and the market development opportunities of this.

“Hosting worldwide experts from this important field adds to a diverse range of scientific disciplines and Associations from around the world who have chosen to host their Business Events in Melbourne .

“From geophysics to biochemistry, Melbourne has a world-wide reputation for, and expertise in, hosting major science-related Business Events. This is a result of MCVB’s exceptional bidding skills, as well as Melbourne ’s outstanding knowledge capital and research facilities.  When you add to this Melbourne ’s exceptional convention facilities, it’s easy to see why Melbourne is a number one destination for leaders and conventions from around the world,” Ms Chipchase said.

The Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre’s Chief Executive, Leigh Harry, said: “As the world’s first ‘6 Star Green Star’ environmentally rated convention centre, it is appropriate that the World Geothermal Congress in 2015 will be held in the Melbourne Convention Centre. We look forward to hosting this important convention and welcoming these delegates to Melbourne .”

Dr Graeme Beardsmore, Chair of the Aus-NZ Bid Committee to host the Congress, and a Director of the International Geothermal Association, said the Congress provides an opportunity to showcase Australia ’s advances in utilising geothermal energy for heat and power and to also share with Australia the advances made in other parts of the world.

“This is Australia ’s chance to showcase our innovation in researching and developing geothermal energy, an abundant clean energy source that holds great potential to provide our energy needs in a carbon-constrained future, and I am delighted to be involved in this unique event.”