The First Queensland Renewable Energy Zone

Queensland Renewable Energy Zone

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The First Queensland Renewable Energy Zone – The Wind Farm Is Just The Beginning

Construction has commenced!

The first Queensland Renewable Energy Zone (QREZ) is being built. This facility will connect the Kaban Green Power Hub to the electricity grid. The construction has created 250 jobs.

Projects like Kaban Green Power Hub will enable Queensland to maintain and strengthen its role as the energy powerhouse of the National Electricity Market.

Queensland has long been the backbone of Australia’s energy grid. The government’s commitment to developing a series of renewable energy zones across the state complements the existing generation strengths in renewables, coal and gas.

Clear energy and climate policies create investment certainty for businesses, supporting growth in economic activity and employment. That’s why Queensland has seen over 5000MW of planned renewable investment, supporting 7000 construction jobs.

Neoen’s $373 million investment in the Kaban Green Power Hub is the first of many renewable projects within the Northern Queensland Renewable Energy Zone, which adds 500MW of capacity for solar and wind.

“Investment in renewables delivers cheaper and cleaner energy which are fundamental to creating more Queensland jobs and are a key component of Queensland’s plan for economic recovery,” Mr de Brenni said.

“The work program will include building the Tumoulin switching station near Ravenshoe, almost 1000 metres above sea level, making it the highest situated infrastructure of its type in the state.

“The project will help harness our abundant wind resources and transport Kaban wind farm’s 157MW output across North Queensland.

“It builds on our $40 million investment announced by the Premier in May to upgrade the transmission line between Cairns and Townsville from 132kV to 275kV.

“This project is indicative of the international investment pipeline that is supported by our clear commitment to reaching 50 per cent renewable energy by 2030.

“But most importantly, it is the next step in a $700 million program of upgrades to the North Queensland network that Powerlink will carry out over the next five years.

“Upgrades that will open Far North Queensland to new investment and enable additional capacity for solar and wind in the Northern Queensland Renewable Energy Zone.

“Having a diverse energy mix means more reliable power, ensuring that our state can continue to expand its manufacturing base and deliver more secure jobs for Queenslanders.”

Mick de Brenni – Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen

Kaban Green Power Hub plays a pivotal role in establishing the Northern Queensland REZ and looks forward to the project contributing to Queensland’s energy transition and supporting the region’s recovery from Covid-19.

ENDS

Tuesday 14th September – Media Release

Read the Media Release here.

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