THE Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has provided funding assistance for the development of a revolutionary power steering pump that has the potential to save the heavy vehicle industry millions of dollars a year, while significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Mathers Hydraulics in Banyo, Brisbane, has developed an hydraulic pump which reduces the load on vehicle engines, and significantly cuts fuel bills for the bus, truck, construction and mining industry.

This project recently received funding under the Queensland Sustainable Energy Innovation Fund, coordinated by the EPA's Sustainable Industries Division.

Since 1999, the EPA has provided a total of $3.8 million to 48 organisations who are developing new technologies to reduce energy and water consumption, but need help to reach commercialisation.

Other successful applicants have included an improved, low-cost on-site wastewater treatment plant, a construction panel made from natural plant-based materials, a tidal energy system and a soil moisture sensor to avoid over watering.

EPA Sustainable Industries Executive Director Dr John Cole said applicants could receive up to $200 000, to develop their product to commercialisation.

"These projects offer Smart State solutions to meet the challenge of reducing energy and water consumption," Dr Cole said.

Businesses are invited to submit applications for the next funding round. Draft applications must be submitted by October 27 with final submissions by November 24, 2006.

Further information is available at: epa.qld.gov.au/qseif