Study to look into solar thermal power

The result of a study on turning coal-fired power stations in South Australia into solar thermal plants has the potential to boost the state's energy security, Regional Development Minister Gail Gago says.

The government will provide $130,000 to a $2.3 million study by Alinta Energy into the feasibility of switching the northern power stations one and two and the Playford B power station in the state's mid-north to solar thermal plants.

Ms Gago says the funding is an investment in creating more diverse energy supply solutions for South Australia.

"The project will determine the best solar energy solutions to extend the life of the existing Port Augusta power stations and unlock an alternative to coal in the region," Ms Gago said on Wednesday.

"Such an alternative would improve energy security and provide substantial economic, social and environmental benefits to the state."

Alinta Energy chief executive Jeff Dimery solar energy had significant potential to provide a more diverse fuel mix.