The final stage of the Kidston Clean Energy Hub, the Kidston Wind Farm, has been declared a prescribed project, ensuring the delivery of the project that will create 200 construction jobs.
In making the declaration, Acting Premier Steven Miles said when complete, the Kidston Clean Energy Hub will further strengthen the reliability of North Queensland’s energy grid.
“The Clean Energy Hub will provide large scale solar, pumped hydro storage and wind energy at a single location” Mr Miles said.
“When operational, the hub will contribute to the Queensland renewable energy target requiring 70 per cent renewable energy by 2032 and 80 per cent by 2035, as outlined in the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan.
“It will enable generation, storage and dispatch of renewable energy on demand during peak periods, strengthening the reliability of the energy grid for North Queensland communities.
“The Kidston Wind Farm project is expected to create around 200 construction jobs and 10 permanent jobs from ongoing operations.”
More than 20 local suppliers based in Townsville, Ingham and Cairns are partnering with Powerlink to deliver the transmission line that will connect the Clean Energy Hub to the national electricity grid.
Minister for Regional Development and Manufacturing Glenn Butcher said TEi Services was one of the local suppliers working on the project.
“TEi Services has been operating in Townsville since 1968, providing engineering services to multiple sectors including construction, sugar and mining, as well as manufacturing steel products,” Mr Butcher said.
“The Palaszczuk Government has previously contributed funding toward purchasing a robotic welding solution to manufacture equipment for the mining industry.
“TEi Services is a great example of a company that’s forming part of our new renewable energy manufacturing supply chain.”
Member for Thuringowa Aaron Harper said the new transmission line will be built with a lot of Queensland materials.
“Local Townsville suppliers are providing important materials such as tubular steel structures, foundation reinforcement, vehicle hire and site office facilities to complete this project,” Mr Harper said.
“Here at TEi, they’ve employed ten apprentices, an investment in Queensland’s future manufacturing industry.”
“There are great opportunities for people in Townsville and North Queensland to secure good jobs through not only the Kidston project but through our Energy and Jobs Plan.”
Minister for Resources and Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said this project will see solar, wind and pumped storage hydro power produced in North Queensland.
“Townsville and North Queensland are big winners in Queensland’s Energy and Jobs Plan, lining the region up to become a renewable energy powerhouse,” Mr Stewart said.
“Our Energy and Jobs Plan will deliver a pipeline of renewable energy jobs. It’s given companies like TEi the confidence to put on more apprentices.
“We’re committed to engaging local North Queensland businesses and sourcing local materials where possible to create jobs, support industry and create local supply chains.”
TEi Services General Manager Richard Parker said his team of 60 continue to adopt new technology and was proud to bring 50 years’ experience to the project.
“Our team commenced fabrication of the tubular steel for Mount Fox substation this week in preparation to deliver 40 tonnes for the project,” Mr Parker said.
“We are proud to be playing an important role in this project and the Queensland Government Energy and Jobs Plan, representing the North Queensland business community.
“Helping us stand out, is investing in future quality tradies employing ten apprentices as well as supporting local suppliers, service providers and community groups.”
Powerlink Chief Executive Paul Simshauser said he was delighted local businesses were supporting the $295 million project and helping deliver on-ground works.
“Our project team has been working hard, in partnership with Principal Contractor UGL, to maximise local employment and procurement opportunities wherever possible for Powerlink’s program of works,” Mr Simshauser said.
“The expertise and capabilities of North Queensland businesses will deliver contracts valued at nearly $14 million and support 400 local jobs which is a key focus for Powerlink.”
Genex Power Chief Executive Officer James Harding welcomed the declaration of Kidston Wind Farm as a prescribed project.
“Genex knows how important the Kidston Wind Farm will be for the people of North Queensland, which is why we requested it be declared a prescribed project,” Mr Harding said.
“It is not only economically and socially significant for the region, we are proud that it will contribute to Queensland’s renewable energy targets.
“This builds on the 50 megawatt Kidston Solar Farm in operation, and our flagship project, the 250 megawatt pumped hydro storage facility under construction.”
A prescribed project is one which is of significance, particularly economically and socially, to Queensland or a region. Declaring a prescribed project allows the Coordinator-General’s powers to ensure timely decision-making in development approvals.