Publicly-owned CS Energy is partnering with the Gladstone Engineering Alliance (GEA) on an innovative project to map the capability of local suppliers to work on new wind energy developments in Central Queensland.
Assistant Minister for Hydrogen Development and the 50% Renewable Energy Target by 2030 Lance McCallum announced the project during his speech at the GEA Major Industry and Energy Conference in Gladstone today.
Mr McCallum said the supply chain mapping project would support CS Energy’s plans to add wind generation to its portfolio to help meet Queensland’s new renewable energy targets under the new $62 billion Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan.
“This supply chain mapping project will help uncover the existing expertise in the region and the capability of local businesses to provide services to support the construction, operation and maintenance of wind projects,” Mr McCallum said.
“Our new Queensland SuperGrid will need over 2000 new wind turbines, including new projects in Central Queensland.
“We want to help local businesses along the renewable supply chain seize this enormous opportunity.
“The initiative is based on similar projects conducted by Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise, including a hydrogen skills mapping partnership with CS Energy to support their renewable hydrogen demonstration project at Kogan Creek.”
Image: CS Energy CEO Andrew Bills, Assistant Minister for Hydrogen Development and the 50% Renewable Energy Target by 2030 Lance McCallum, GEA Board President Patrice Brown and GEA General Manager Peter Masters.
CS Energy is investigating several new wind projects in the region, the first of which is EDF Renewables’ Banana Range Wind Farm near Biloela, and is working with the Banana Shire Council as it plans for the future at and around its Callide Power Station site.
Earlier this year CS Energy signed a Memorandum of Understanding with EDF Renewables for the 230 MW Banana Range Wind Farm, with CS Energy considering both an offtake agreement and equity participation for the wind farm.
CS Energy CEO Andrew Bills said the supply chain mapping project demonstrated CS Energy’s commitment to creating opportunities for its people and the regional economy during the energy transformation.
“CS Energy is committed to supporting local businesses and creating local jobs where possible,” Mr Bills said.
GEA General Manager Peter Masters said the region was at the forefront of what is needed to innovate and diversify in the energy transition.
“GEA are pleased to partner with CS Energy to deliver the capability mapping portal which will provide great benefit to our local business community throughout Central Queensland and help them prepare to take advantage of the opportunities associated with wind,” Mr Masters said.
GEA and CS Energy will provide a web page with more information for suppliers and how they can be involved.