Construction has started in Queensland’s first Renewable Energy Zone (QREZ), connecting the Kaban Green Power Hub to the power grid and creating 250 jobs.

Treasurer and Investment Minister Cameron Dick said projects like Kaban would allow Queensland to maintain and strengthen its role as a powerhouse in the national electricity market.

“Queensland has long been the backbone of Australia’s energy grid, and our government’s commitment to developing a series of renewable energy zones across the state complements our existing production forces in renewable energy, coal. and gas, â€said the treasurer.

“We know that a clear energy and climate policy creates investment security for businesses, supporting growth in economic activity and jobs.

“This is why Queensland has seen more than 5,000 MW of renewable investment planned, supporting 7,000 construction jobs.”

Energy, Renewable Energy and Hydrogen Minister Mick de Brenni said Neoen’s $ 373 million investment in the Kaban Green Power Hub is the first of many renewable energy projects in the within the Northern Queensland Renewable Energy Zone, which adds an additional 500 MW of capacity for solar and wind power.

“Investing in renewable energy provides cheaper and cleaner energy, which is fundamental to creating more jobs in Queensland and is a key part of Queensland’s economic recovery plan,” said Mr de Brenni. .

“The work program will include the construction of the Tumoulin switching station near Ravenshoe, nearly 1,000 meters above sea level, making it the highest such infrastructure in the state.

“The project will help harness our abundant wind resources and transport the 157 MW output from the Kaban wind farm through northern Queensland.

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

“This project is indicative of the international investment pipeline which is supported by our clear commitment to reach 50% renewable energy by 2030.

“But more importantly, this is the next step in a $ 700 million North Queensland grid upgrade program that Powerlink will deliver over the next five years.

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

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

Neoen Australia Managing Director Louis de Sambucy said: “We are proud of the central role the Kaban Green Power Hub is playing in the creation of the Northern Queensland REZ and look forward to contributing to Queensland’s energy transition and supporting the recovery of the region after Covid-19. . “

CleanCo signed a Capacity Purchase Agreement (CPA) for Kaban, agreeing to purchase 100% of the wind farm’s renewable energy from the green energy hub and taking control of the allocation.

Construction of the Tumoulin switching station should be completed by April 2022, requiring the erection of three 80-meter pylons crossing and then connecting to the existing 275 kV transmission network.