Renewable Energy Projects Boost $160 Million

Queensland could soon host one of the largest wind projects in the southern hemisphere as the federal government pledges to quickly track connections to the country’s energy grid.

The state’s Southern Downs Renewable Energy Zone will receive a $160 million federal investment in new infrastructure to connect electricity generated from wind farms to the grid.

Powerlink, which is run by the state government, will use the funds to build and operate 65 kilometers of high-voltage overhead power lines and two new switching stations.

A landmark agreement between federal and state governments will bring more renewable energy to homes and businesses in southern Queensland and the east coast, said Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen. .

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“We are implementing the Powering Australia plan, which includes a significant increase in renewable energy supply to create jobs and reduce emissions across the country,” he said.

“The best way to put downward pressure on energy prices is to increase investment in renewable energy, transmission and storage.”

This investment is the first account between the Commonwealth Clean Energy Finance Corporation and a Queensland Government owned company.

It is expected to help establish one of the largest wind projects in the southern hemisphere.

Connecting the project to the national electricity market will improve electricity reliability across the three states of Eastern Australia, said Queensland Energy Minister Mick de Brenni.

“It also provides another opportunity to build onshore competencies and skills for Queenslanders for future renewable energy jobs,” he said.