Queensland to build hydrogen ready power generation

Queensland is firming a renewable energy future with the delivery of the state’s first renewable energy peaking power plant now officially underway.

In a partnership led by publicly owned energy company, CS Energy, GE Vernova will supply hydrogen ready peaking generation units, decreasing future reliance on fossil gas.

GE Vernova will supply the equipment for the Brigalow Peaking Power Plant, to be rolled out at the future Kogan Creek clean energy hub in the Western Downs.

The peaking plant will initially be capable of operating on 35 per cent renewable hydrogen, with a pathway to 100 per cent hydrogen over time.

The open-cycle power station will underpin energy security, with fast-start capability, and the ability to operate in high demand periods to support variable solar and wind energy.

With a capacity of 400 MW, it will have the ability to power more than 75,000 homes when operational in 2026, subject to final approvals.

CS Energy CEO Darren Busine said: “CS Energy is committed to securing a balanced mix of energy sources that can meet our customers’ decarbonisation requirements and support the delivery of the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan.

“The open-cycle design of the Brigalow Peaking Power Plant provides the ability for multiple start/stop cycles per day and the ability to ramp up to full power output within five minutes.

“This project is an example of how we are creating clean energy hubs at our power stations to deliver the energy mix needed to reliably transition the grid to renewable energy while also providing opportunities for our workforce to reskill.”

Picture: Kogan Creek power station