The Queensland Government is investing $448.2 million from the Queensland Renewable Energy and Hydrogen Jobs Fund towards a mega boost to Stanwell’s big battery.
“We are delivering the big energy build for Queensland, that will go on to power our homes and energy intensive industries with cheaper, cleaner energy,” Premier Steven Miles said.
“The Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan will create jobs and protect jobs in existing industries, including here at Stanwell.
“That’s what our mega battery investment is all about – delivering the energy storage our state needs, while supporting good local jobs in Central Queensland.”
This funding will see the battery planned for Stanwell Power Station double in size to become the state’s largest committed battery project.
Storage will increase from 150 megawatts (MW) / 300 MWh (two-hour duration) to a 300MW / 1,200 MWh (four-hour duration) battery system.
As well as providing Queensland with reliable, affordable power, the $747 million project will provide a boost to local jobs, with up to 80 full time roles to be created over the construction phase, as well as six full-time roles over the battery’s operation.
This mega battery system will be constructed within the Stanwell Power Station near Rockhampton, as part of the site’s transition to a Clean Energy Hub.
Construction of the large-scale battery is scheduled to commence in May 2024 and the battery system is due to be operational in mid-2027.
The project signals a clear commitment to the Rockhampton and Central Queensland community that the renewable energy transformation will bring continued investment into the region and provide secure jobs at and around our publicly-owned generation sites into the future.
“By doubling the size of this battery, we’ll ensure that Central Queensland will have reliable, long lasting renewable energy for decades to come,” Minister for Energy and Clean Economy Jobs, Mick de Brenni said.
“This is the clean economy transition in action – not only does this mean cheaper, cleaner and more secure energy, but big battery projects like the Stanwell battery deliver a huge boost to jobs and economic growth to the local community.
“Stanwell Power Station has proven vital over the last three decades, and thanks to its new role as a Clean Energy Hub within the clean economy, it will remain a key asset in this regional economy into the future.
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