The Queensland Government has announced $1.3 billion in funding to advance construction of the $5 billion CopperString 2032 transmission project.
The funding will get the project ready for construction to commence mid-2024. The package will enable publicly-owned energy cooperation Powerlink, alongside construction partners UGL and CPB, to undertake detailed design and engineering and environmental assessments.
Related article: Queensland’s CopperString 2032 reaches first big milestone
The project will be calling for response to tenders from local North Queensland companies.
It will also secure the easements for the CopperString 2032 project.
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said, “This is a significant step forward to allow Powerlink to get started on this game-changing project.
“CopperString 2032 is the largest ever economic development project in North Queensland, and the largest expansion to the power grid in Australia.
“We are proud to invest in this historic project, which will connect $500 billion in critical minerals with the largest renewable energy zone on the east coast of Australia unlocking the next mining boom and jobs across the North West Minerals Province and North Queensland.”
Powerlink CEO Paul Simshauser said, “This funding is a vital step to get the necessary planning, design and environmental approvals underway on the project.
Related article: Powerlink seeking local suppliers for CopperString 2032
“We also want to see the people of North and North West Queensland get involved in this project, as it is a project that will shape their region for generations to come.
“We look forward to working closely with our construction partners, local suppliers and communities to make this project a reality and deliver long-term benefits for North Queensland.”
