Connection works for the foundation customer in Queensland’s first Renewable Energy Zone are now complete with the energisation of Powerlink’s Tumoulin Switching Station and Neoen’s first turbine at the 157MW Kaban Green Power Hub in Far North Queensland.
Powerlink Chief Executive Paul Simshauser said energisation of the Tumoulin Switching Station and Kaban Green Power Hub was the culmination of months of detailed work and planning.
“The completion of this significant package of works marks a number of firsts for Powerlink,” Mr Simshauser said.
“The switching station was built 960 metres above sea level – the highest of its type in Queensland. Powerlink also constructed two of the tallest transmission towers on our network standing at 85 metres tall.
“Tumoulin Switching Station will play a vital role monitoring and controlling the flow, stability and voltage of the electricity being generated by Kaban Green Power Hub and across Powerlink’s network.
“The Kaban Green Power Hub Connection Project is part of $700 million worth of work Powerlink is undertaking on North Queensland’s transmission network over the next five years, connecting customers to a world-class energy future.”
Neoen Managing Director Louis de Sambucy said the business was extremely proud of Kaban’s role as the cornerstone project of Queensland’s first Renewable Energy Zone, and was delighted to have reached this important milestone of first energisation.
“I’d like to thank the Queensland Government and CleanCo for their vision and support, and Powerlink for their hard work and commitment in delivering the essential transmission infrastructure,” Mr de Sambucy said.
“The team is now entirely focused on the successful completion of the project over coming months, and we are looking forward to playing our part in the State’s transition to 50% renewables by 2030.”