Construction has commenced in the first Queensland Renewable Energy Zone (QREZ), connecting Neoen’s $373 Kaban Green Power Hub to the electricity grid and creating 250 jobs.
Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen Mick de Brenni said the work program will include building the Tumoulin switching station near Ravenshoe, almost 1000 metres above sea level, making it the highest situated infrastructure of its type in the state.
“The project will help harness our abundant wind resources and transport Kaban wind farm’s 157 MW output across North Queensland,” the Minister said.
“Having a diverse energy mix means more reliable power, ensuring that our state can continue to expand its manufacturing base and deliver more secure jobs for Queenslanders.”
Located near Ravenshoe in the Atherton Tablelands, 80 km south-west of Cairns, Kaban Green Power Hub is a renewable energy project consisting of a 157 MW wind farm and 100-megawatt storage facility.
The project has a power purchase agreement with CleanCo, which will buy 100% of the wind farm’s renewable energy.
Neoen Australia Managing Director Louis de Sambucy said Kaban would deliver an economic boost to Far North Queensland, supporting the region’s recovery from Covid-19.
“We are proud of the pivotal role the Kaban Green Power Hub is playing in establishing the Northern Queensland REZ and look forward to project contributing to Queensland’s energy transition and to supporting the region’s recovery from Covid-19,” he said.
According to Minister de Brenni, construction of the Tumoulin switching station is expected to be complete by April 2022.
