A Heads of Agreement between Queensland Government-owned Powerlink and Genex Power Limited has been signed to progress Stage 2 of the Kidston Hydro-Solar Project, taking the project one step closer to construction.
“This agreement is a significant milestone in the delivery of one of Queensland’s largest renewable projects – the Kidston Hydro-Solar Project.
“The huge stage two of the Kidston Hydro-Solar Project comprises the 250MW Kidston Pumped Hydro Project and the 270MW Kidston Solar Project at the site of the former Kidston Gold Mine in North Queensland,” Minister Assisting the Premier on North Queensland Coralee O’Rourke said.
Ms O’Rourke added that this project follows the 50MW Kidston Solar Farm Stage 1 – currently under construction – which is financially supported by the State Government’s Solar 150 program.
Stage 1 of the project will involve approximately 100 construction jobs, with Stage 2 bringing the count to 500 construction jobs as well as 18 operational positions once the project is completed. The Kidston Hydro-Solar Project is located approximately 270 kilometres north-west of Townsville.
According to Treasurer and Acting Energy Minister Curtis Pitt, this announcement highlights the Queensland Government’s commitment to generate 50 per cent of the State’s electricity needs from renewable energy by 2030.
“The Heads of Agreement announced [yesterday] brings this project one step closer to construction and allows Powerlink to commence early project works including a targeted environmental study, design works, and further engagement with landholders and stakeholders about the transmission line route required for the project,” Mr Pitt said.
State Development Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said that the announcement of the agreement follows the project receiving critical infrastructure status from the State Government.
“This is about supporting a project that will help deliver a reliable renewable energy source and support hundreds of jobs,” Dr Lynham said.
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Source: Queensland Government