The Queensland Government’s inaugural Brigalow Peaking Power Plant has commenced delivery, facilitated by a partnership spearheaded by the publicly owned energy company CS Energy, with GE Vernova providing hydrogen-ready peaking generation units to diminish the state’s dependence on fossil gas.
This plant will be strategically located at the future Kogan Creek clean energy hub in the Western Downs, the government revealed in a media statement.
The peaking plant is designed to initially operate on 35 per cent renewable hydrogen, with a progressive pathway aiming for 100 per cent hydrogen utilisation over time.
The open-cycle power station is poised to enhance energy security for Queensland, offering fast-start capability and the flexibility to operate during high-demand periods, supporting variable solar and wind energy.
With a capacity of 400 MW, the peaking plant is projected to power over 75,000 homes during peak demand periods, contributing significantly to Queensland’s renewable energy goals.
The recent signing marks a pivotal moment for the project, representing the first major equipment order.
This development follows extensive studies aimed at informing the plant’s design, with the operational date slated for 2026, pending final approvals.
According to Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment Cameron Dick, Queensland’s clean energy economy will require a combination of renewable energy, firming technology, and high-capacity transmission.
He noted that up to three gigawatts of additional low-to-zero emission gas will be necessary for peak demand and backup security by 2035.
“That’s why our Government’s Queensland Renewable Energy and Hydrogen Jobs Fund is supporting towards the Brigalow Peaking Power Plant,” Minister Dick noted.
Minister for Energy, Renewables, and Hydrogen Mick de Brenni highlighted the fast-start capability of the Brigalow Peaking Power Plant, stating that it takes just five minutes to go from cold to full output.
“The Brigalow Peaking Power Plant demonstrates the opportunity for real action on climate change, moving away from fossil-fuels to green hydrogen produced here in Queensland from our abundant sun, wind and water,” de Brenni stated.
CS Energy CEO Darren Busine expressed the company’s commitment to securing a balanced mix of energy sources to meet decarbonisation requirements.
He stated, “This project is an example of how we are creating clean energy hubs at our power stations to deliver the energy mix needed to reliably transition the grid to renewable energy while also providing opportunities for our workforce to reskill.”
Meanwhile, GE Vernova Gas Power President and CEO Eric Gray expressed honour in being considered to provide highly efficient and flexible gas turbine technology for the project.
He emphasised the goal of supplying affordable, reliable, and sustainable electricity to homes and businesses in Queensland.
