The installation of a Geothermal Plant could provided endless opportunities for the Winton Shire across a range of industries.
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The $4 million project was invested by Winton Shire Council ($3.5m) and the Queensland Department of State Development grant ($500,000) to help offset increases in electricity charges and offer an opportunity to raise revenue.
As the water from the bore was already hot, Winton Shire Council said it was a logical conclusion to use it as a source of energy and the idea for Geothermal Power Station was born.
The Winton Geothermal Plant has a peak output of 310kW which is partially used by the cooling system and the town water reticulation system with the remainder sold to Ergon and distributed to town.
"Winton uses approximately 3MW of power, so based on average annual household consumption the Geothermal Plant equates to 200 houses at peak efficiency," Council said.
"Winton Shire are particularly proud of this community owned, clean energy project and hopes it will be the first of many of these types of generators throughout central Australia."
In late 2019, Winton will be hosting a round table brainstorm with representatives from a range of industries.
Winton Shire Council wants to attract partners to the Geothermal Plant to work on water projects for the region.
Geothermal Plant History:
- 2013 council conducted the investigation into options to help council offset increase in power charges,
- 2014 the feasibility study was complete and Council appointed LGIS to undertake the concept design,
- 2015 a detailed design work was drawn up for a future tender,
- 2016 tenders were awarded
- 2017/18 Cultural Heritage and Native Title extinguishment and land was acquired
- 2019 Onsite plant construction in early 2019 and installation and commissioning late 2019.
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Samantha Campbell
Samantha Campbell (nee Walton) has worked for regional and rural publications across New South Wales, Queensland and the Northern Territory. She is currently writing for the North Queensland Register based in North West Queensland. Email: samantha.campbell@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Samantha Campbell (nee Walton) has worked for regional and rural publications across New South Wales, Queensland and the Northern Territory. She is currently writing for the North Queensland Register based in North West Queensland. Email: samantha.campbell@austcommunitymedia.com.au
