Genex Power’s world-leading solar and pumped hydro project has cleared another development hurdle, after sealing a deal to connect the Kidston Renewable Energy Hub to the national grid.
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On Friday Powerlink and Genex Power Limited signed an agreement to progress Stage 2 of the Kidston Hydro-Solar Project in Etheridge Shire, that combined with stage one will support up to 500 construction jobs and deliver more than 500 megawatts of hydro and solar power.
Assitant Minister Coralee O’Rourke said the Heads of Agreement between the government-owned Powerlink and Genex was a significant milestone for one of Queensland’s largest renewable projects.
“The huge stage two of the Kidston Hydro-Solar Project comprises the 250MW Kidston Pumped Hydro Project and the 270MW Kidston Solar Project at the site of the former Kidston Gold Mine in North Queensland,” Ms O’Rourke said.
“It follows the 50 MW Kidston stage one solar farm currently under construction, financially supported by the Palaszczuk Government’s Solar 150 program, which provides a 20 year revenue guarantee.”
The government says stage one involves around 100 construction jobs and in total, both stages will support up to 500 construction jobs and 18 operational positions when online.
Treasurer and Acting Energy Minister Curtis Pitt said the announcement highlights the government’s commitment to generate half of Queensland’s electricity needs from renewable energy by 2030.
“The Heads of Agreement announced (Friday) brings this project is one step closer to construction and allows Powerlink to commence early project works including a targeted environmental study, design works, and further engagement with landholders and stakeholders about the transmission line route required for the project,” Mr Pitt said.
“Powerlink is currently undertaking a feasibility study into the North Queensland Clean Energy Hub, due for completion early 2018.”
Powerlink Chief Executive Merryn York said the signing of the agreement reinforced the important role the transmission network will play in facilitating large-scale renewable generation.
“Powerlink will play a key role in delivering a lower carbon future for Queensland as we connect renewable generation projects to our transmission network,” Ms York said.
“Powerlink has enjoyed a strong working relationship with Genex to date, and we look forward to delivering these early project works on their behalf as part of the agreement.”
Genex’s Managing Director Michael Addison said he was pleased to have finalised this vital element of the project.
“The proposed work on the transmission corridor is key to connecting our project to the national electricity grid,” Mr Addison said.
“We maintain an excellent relationship with Powerlink and are delighted to be working with them towards meeting our power transmission requirements.”
Derek Barry
Editor of the North West Star Mount Isa since January 2016. Prior to that, an editor at several regional southern Queensland newspapers. Passionate about telling local stories. Comes with a strange accent to due an Irish accident of birth.
Editor of the North West Star Mount Isa since January 2016. Prior to that, an editor at several regional southern Queensland newspapers. Passionate about telling local stories. Comes with a strange accent to due an Irish accident of birth.
