Kidston Wind Farm declared a prescribed project, ensuring 200 jobs

The Kidston Wind Farm has been declared a prescribed project by the Queensland Government and this ensures that the delivery of this renewable energy project will generate 200 construction jobs. 

The Kidston Wind Farm is the final stage of the Kidston Clean Energy Hub that will also comprise of a 50MW solar farm and 250MW pumped storage hydro project. 

“When operational, the hub will contribute to the Queensland renewable energy target requiring 70 per cent renewable energy by 2032 and 80 per cent by 2035, as outlined in the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan. 

“It will enable generation, storage and dispatch of renewable energy on demand during peak periods, strengthening the reliability of the energy grid for North Queensland communities. 

“The Kidston Wind Farm project is expected to create around 200 construction jobs and 10 permanent jobs from ongoing operations,” Acting Premier Steven Miles said. 

Declaring the Kidston Wind Farm as a prescribed project will allow the Coordinator-General to prioritise the development for approvals which, in turn, effectively ensures the project’s delivery. 

Genex Power Chief Executive Officer James Harding has also welcomed the announcement that the Kidston Wind Farm has been declared a prescribed project. 

“Genex knows how important the Kidston Wind Farm will be for the people of North Queensland, which is why we requested it to be declared a prescribed project. 

“It is not only economically and socially significant for the region, we are proud that it will contribute to Queensland’s renewable energy targets. 

“This builds on the 50 megawatt Kidston Solar Farm in operation, and our flagship project, the 250 megawatt pumped hydro storage facility under construction,” Mr Harding said. 

Powerlink is also undertaking the development of a transmission line that will connect the Kidston Clean Energy Hub to the national electricity grid. 

To date, more than 20 local suppliers based in Townsville, Ingham and Cairns have been engaged to deliver the transmission line. One of these suppliers is TEi Services. 

“TEi Services has been operating in Townsville since 1968, providing engineering services to multiple sectors including construction, sugar and mining, as well as manufacturing steel products. 

“The Palaszczuk Government has previously contributed toward purchasing a robotic welding solution to manufacture equipment for the mining industry. 

“TEi Services is a great example of a company that’s forming part of our new renewable energy manufacturing supply chain,” Minister for Regional Development and Manufacturing Glenn Butcher said. 

The new transmission line is going to be built using a lot of Queensland materials. Suppliers in Townsville are providing critical materials such as tubular steel structures, foundation reinforcement as well as vehicle hire and site office facilities. 

In addition, TEi Services has employed about 10 apprentices for the delivery of the transmission line project. 

“There are great opportunities for people in Townsville and North Queensland to secure good jobs through not only the Kidston project but through our Energy and Jobs Plan,” Member for Thuringowa Aaron Harper said. 

TEi Services is deploying a team of 60 people to work on the transmission line project and this team will continue to adopt new technology as the company brings its 50 years of experience to the project. 

“Our team commenced fabrication of the tubular steel for Mount Fox substation this week in preparation to deliver 40 tonnes for the project. 

“We are proud to be playing an important role in this project and the Queensland Government Energy and Jobs Plan, representing the North Queensland business community. 

“Helping us stand out, is investing in future quality tradies employing ten apprentices as well as supporting local suppliers, service providers and community groups,” TEi Services General Manager Richard Parker said. 

Powerlink Chief Executive Paul Simshauser said that he is delighted that the $295 million transmission line project is supporting local businesses. 

“Our project team has been working hard, in partnership with Principal Contractor UGL, to maximise local employment and procurement opportunities wherever possible for Powerlink’s program of works. 

“The expertise and capabilities of North Queensland businesses will deliver contracts valued at nearly $14 million and support 400 local jobs which is a key focus for Powerlink,” Mr Simshauser said. 

The transmission line is due to be completed in 2024 and the new Kidston Wind Farm is expected to be connected to the substation in 2025. 

The Kidston Clean Energy Hub is being built at the old Kidston Gold Mine. Existing infrastructure at the project site will be utilised in the development of both the pumped storage hydro and wind farm projects.

Source: Queensland Government – Media Statements; Genex Power (1, 2)