Advanced Lignite Demonstration Program
The Australian Government and the Victorian State Government are now seeking proposals from parties interested in developing pre-commercial demonstration scale, coal upgrading processes for raw lignite.
Up to A$90 million in funding is available to support projects assessed by the Commonwealth and Victorian Governments as addressing the program objectives.
- Read program news
- Download the prospectus, application criteria or the EOI form
- Find the answers to frequently asked questions (updated weekly)
- Potential project partners – business matching opportunities
- Contact us
About the program
Pre-commercial demonstration is defined as demonstration of a process, or integration or adaptation of a process on Victorian lignite. Projects must involve demonstrable technology risk, and be of sufficient size, to provide process and performance guarantees on successful completion of the pre-commercial demonstration plant. It is envisaged that, upon completion of the technology demonstration, a commercial facility will be able to be financed and constructed.
The prime focus of the Advanced Lignite Demonstration Program (ALDP) is on fit-for-purpose “coal upgrading” processes for raw lignite (including materials handling). Proposals must identify the product stream which is being targeted and present a plausible pathway to market.
Technologies most relevant and applicable to Victoria’s Latrobe Valley, and meeting the Program’s definition and objectives, will be eligible for the Program regardless of whether they have been developed in Victoria, elsewhere in Australia or overseas. Projects must be constructed in Victoria’s La Trobe Valley.
Proposals will be assessed via a two stage competitive tender process. The first stage is an Expression of Interest (EOI). EOI proposals will be assessed by an Independent Assessment Panel, with short-listed proponents requested to submit a Request for Proposal (RFP).
It is expected that projects will have a duration of four years, with funding available for projects to commence before 30 June 2014. It is expected that a range of projects with various coal upgrading technologies and end-use applications will be selected for funding.
Pre-commercial technologies are eligible for funding under this program and must encompass coal upgrading which will include, but is not limited to:
- Drying
- Dewatering
- Char Production, and
- Separation.
The program may also include funding for pre-commercial coal conversion technologies in conjunction with any coal upgrading process, including, but not limited to:
- Liquefaction,
- Combustion, and
- Gasification.
