Powerlink will work collaboratively alongside 11 regional NRM organisations, on key aspects including the management of environmental offsets to ensure social and environmental benefits for communities, landscapes and future generations.

Related article: Work begins on Queensland’s CopperString 2032

It recognises the opportunity to develop projects across Queensland that support both sectors to be nature positive, while balancing affordability, security and reliability of the electricity network. The partnership also helps to facilitate the successful transition of an electricity network which is becoming more weather affected.

Powerlink executive general manager of network and business development Stewart Bell said, “Powerlink is playing a vital role in delivering Queensland’s transition to a renewable energy future by building the connections between generators and Queenslanders.

“Partnerships like this will also allow us to make meaningful contributions to enhancing Queensland’s natural resources.

“We see this is as not only a way to offset environmental impacts but also to understand how we can do more to ensure future generations can benefit from the rich environment Queensland has to offer.”

Natural Resource Management Regions Queensland CEO Chris Norman said, “The purpose of this agreement is to drive innovation that supports both the energy and natural resource management sector to be nature positive.

“We are hoping to develop a program of collaborative offsets with an initial focus on environmental restoration offsets.

Related article: Endangered parrots arrive at Tasmanian Gas Pipeline

“Like Powerlink, we have a long-term vision for a healthier environment built on foundations of dedication and trust.

“Together we want to develop leading practice around strategic environmental offsets and limit the impacts any action—such as renewable energy projects—might have on the environment.”

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Related article: Octopus snaps up Queensland’s largest proposed battery

The Blackstone storage development is Queensland’s biggest battery storage project. The project is located 30km from Brisbane and has the ability to power around 70,000 homes.

Once constructed, the battery project will compliment Octopus’s other wind and solar assets in Queensland, including the operational Dulacca Wind Farm and the Ardandra Battery and Solar Farm currently in development.

Given the high volumes of solar generation in Queensland, the Blackstone Battery will play a vital role in capturing energy generated during the day and redistributing it in the evening to meet peak demand periods.

Octopus co-managing director renewables Australia Sonia Teitel said, “The planning approval for the Blackstone Battery is a significant step towards building Octopus’s integrated portfolio of multi-technology renewable assets. The Blackstone Battery will play a pivotal role in delivering reliable renewable energy generation in Queensland and supporting the state’s transition towards a renewable future.”

Related article: Octopus Australia to build 1GW wind project in NSW

Octopus Australia continues to collaborate closely with key stakeholders Firm Power and Powerlink towards the next phases of the project.

The post Octopus’ 1GWh Blackstone Battery gets planning tick appeared first on Energy Source & Distribution.

Related article: CS Energy partners with Powerlink for 400MWh big battery

The huge transformer was transported just over 61km from Port of Brisbane to Greenbank on two twelve-axle trailers. It was pushed an pulled by two prime movers on a total of 232 wheels.

The transformer, with a total operational weight is the equivalent of roughly eight Boeing 737 jets, will convert high-voltage electricity to a lower voltage to charge the battery, then send electricity on to customers across South East Queensland.

The Greenbank Substation site was chosen for its strategic location on Powerlink’s transmission network. A battery at this location will allow Powerlink to increase the network capability by ensuring a reliable supply of high-voltage electricity is maintained to South East Queensland.

Powerlink signed an agreement with CS Energy to install a grid-scale battery at Powerlink’s existing Greenbank Substation.

As part of this work, Powerlink will be connecting the 200MW/400WMh battery to the Greenbank Substation, which supplies electricity to South East Queensland—in particular the Gold Coast, Logan and South Brisbane areas.

The battery will have capacity to power 28,000 homes for two hours before needing to recharge.

Related article: Convoy carries massive transformer to EnergyConnect site

This is Australia’s first truly cooperative BESS utilisation and optimisation scheme, partnering a transmission network provider with a generation and retail business.

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The boost in capacity will give Far North Queensland communities access to stronger and more reliable electricity, according to the state’s network operator, Powerlink Queensland.

Related article: Spotlight on the SuperGrid

It also supports the in-flight Far North Queensland Renewable Energy Zone (REZ), supporting the expected installation of 500-700MW of renewable generation across the region.

Kaban Green Power Hub, a foundation project of the Far North Queensland REZ, can now operate at full capacity, allowing Far North Queensland communities to capitalise on strong and clean wind energy.

This is one part of a two staged approach to strengthen the Far North Queensland electricity network with upgrade works on the Tully South Substation to be completed in April 2024.

Powerlink chief operating officer Gary Edwards said, “This is a significant milestone for the development and operability of the high voltage network, especially for communities across Far North Queensland.

Related article: Attendees eye future at Powerlink Transmission Forum

“It allows the clean energy from Kaban’s Green Power Hub to operate at full capacity and allows for more renewable generators to connect into the grid.

“This additional resilience to our network will be further supported when Ross Substation upgrades are complete in early 2024.”

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Related article: Eyes on the skies: BoM and Powerlink renew partnership

The forum took place on Friday, November 3, and brought together renewable developers, industry, community and government representatives to share insights and perspectives on the challenges and opportunities associated with the energy transformation.

The development of renewable energy zones (REZs) in Queensland was a key focus, with attendees discussing what community, generator and wider power system criteria need to be considered to deliver optimal outcomes.

Stakeholders highlighted that REZs should generate long-term community benefits, provide local jobs and infrastructure and take a more coordinated approach to community investment.

Discussions also highlighted the importance of having a diverse and optimal mix of renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, battery, and hydrogen.

Another key topic was the vital role that community engagement and social licence to operate will play in the energy transformation. An expert panel including Jo Sheppard from Queensland Farmers Federation, Andrew Bray from RE-Alliance and Dr Kieren Moffat from Voconiq discussed how the energy industry can better engage and build trust with communities who host energy infrastructure.

Powerlink CEO Paul Simshauser AM said, “This is our flagship annual event and is critically important to get all parts of the energy sector in a room to collaborate and discuss how we can develop a network that is future fit.

“We are not smarter than the market and discussions from this forum form an essential part of Powerlink’s vision for Queensland’s electricity network.

“We exist to serve Queenslanders—and it’s critically important we go on this transformation journey with them.

Related article: Exercise Wirraway tests sector-wide emergency response

“Our focus will always be in delivering the best possible outcome for Queensland households and communities as we also work to decarbonise the electricity network.”

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Over the past three years, the partnership has seen open sharing of collective specialised knowledge and data. It has also delivered targeted research and informed broader research for both organisations to help plan an electricity transmission network that is future fit.

Related article: Redflow batteries installed at BoM radar locations

By analysing weather patterns, forecasts and events, Powerlink can understand how different weather conditions affect the demand for electricity, the performance of the transmission network and the availability of renewable energy sources. For example, when local weather conditions around transmission lines are cooler, more power can be transferred through the system to customers.

The specialised weather data also helps Powerlink to prepare for and respond to extreme weather events, such as storms, cyclones, floods and bushfires, which can damage the transmission infrastructure and disrupt the electricity supply. Weather data helps Powerlink to assess the risks and impacts of these events, implement contingency plans and restore power as quickly and safely as possible.

The new partnership agreement will extend another three years.

Powerlink CEO Paul Simshauser said, “Weather has a very real impact on the high-voltage transmission network, this collaboration allows us to plan better, respond quicker to ensure Queenslanders have access to reliable electricity.

“Access to this specialised data allows us to push energy through the system in a targeted, more efficient way based on local weather conditions.

Related article: Hydro Tas and BoM extend strategic relationship agreement

“Queensland is also exposed to severe climatic conditions and by understanding these trends and working collaboratively together, we can ensure we have a supply system that is optimised and future fit.

“We are proud to be part of this innovative collaboration that harnesses the power of data and technology to deliver better outcomes for Queenslanders.”

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Powerlink is constructing the 186km transmission line from Genex’s Kidston Clean Energy Hub project to Mount Fox switching station—a key part of the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan.

Related article: Genex celebrates milestone at Kidston Pumped Hydro

The project also involves building two new switching stations with works already well underway. Weather dependent, the project is expected to be completed by mid-to-late 2024.

Powerlink project director Tony Janas said, “Powerlink, alongside our construction partners, will construct 348 transmission towers over coming months. The construction of these towers means we are one step closer in enabling the flow of clean energy into communities across North Queensland.

“In coming weeks, we will be using innovative drone technology to string the wires that will eventually connect the pumped hydro project to the grid.

Related article: Bouldercombe battery fire caused by grid-side fault

“New control buildings have also arrived in Brisbane to complete factory acceptance testing before being deployed to the Aurumfield Switching Station.

“These buildings will feature leading technology and are a critical part in maintaining security and reliability of electricity out of the pumped hydro system to North Queensland.”

The post First transmission tower rises at Kidston Clean Energy Hub appeared first on Energy Source & Distribution.

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.”

The post $1.3 billion investment to progress CopperString 2032 appeared first on Energy Source & Distribution.

Exercise Wirraway is an exercise where organisations involved in power generation, transmission and distribution work collaboratively to test emergency response processes and communications arrangements to add further resilience to Queensland’s power system.

Related article: Powerlink seeking local suppliers for CopperString 2032

More than 50 key energy sector representatives—including power generators, transmission and distribution networks—met to test emergency response arrangements for Queensland’s power system over the summer period.

Organisations present included Powerlink, Energy Queensland (Ergon and Energex), CleanCo, Stanwell, CS Energy and the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO).

Summer traditionally sees higher demand for electricity and more extreme weather events, including cyclones and bushfires.

Powerlink CEO Paul Simshauser said, “Exercises like this are an important part of our annual preparations for the summer season. We test our emergency procedures for a range of scenarios including extreme weather events such as cyclones, storms and bushfires.

Related article: 180MW Dulacca Wind Farm powers up in Queensland

“The exercise brings together all parts of Queensland’s electricity supply chain in the one room to not only test existing processes, but also identify how we can make further improvements to the resilience of our network.

“While Queensland’s power system is very resilient, it’s vital we regularly test how the sector responds to emergency events.”

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The works packages cover a range of activities and services, such as engineering, construction, environmental management, logistics, camp construction, haulage and communications. They are designed to maximise the opportunities for local businesses and communities to participate in the delivery of the nation-building CopperString 2032 project, which will stimulate new industries and innovation in the North West Minerals Province unlocking the renewable energy potential of North Queensland.

Related article: Queensland’s CopperString 2032 reaches first big milestone

Powerlink executive general manager for major projects Ian Lowry said, “Since Powerlink took on this project earlier this year, we have been focused on starting work on the ground as soon as possible.

“Our process is not just about finding the best value for money, but also about finding the best fit for our vision. That’s why we want to hear from you, the local businesses and suppliers that know the region and identify who has the capability, capacity, and experience to deliver high-quality outcomes for the CopperString 2032 project.

“We want to work together to create a sustainable and resilient supply chain that benefits local communities along the CopperString line.

“This is an opportunity for regional business to register their interest in being a part of a project that will transform North and North-West Queensland for generations to come.”

In partnership with the Department of State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning, Powerlink is also hosting a series of road shows across the project area, where local suppliers and contractors will have the opportunity to meet our project team, learn more about the scope and timeline of the project, and discuss potential business opportunities.

Related article: Queensland Govt announces funding for CopperString 2.0

The road shows will be held in the following locations and dates:
• Oct 16 – Mount Isa
• Oct 17 – Cloncurry
• Oct 18 – Julia Creek
• Oct 18 – Richmond
• Oct 19 – Hughenden
• Oct 30 – Charters Towers
• Oct 31 – Burdekin
• Oct 31 – Townsville

More information about these roadshow events and how to register will be available on Powerlink’s CopperString 2032 project page.

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Powerlink was the first Australian transmission utility to adopt live substation works in 2001 and RTEi are long-standing world leaders who continue to provide methodology and licensing to Powerlink for this innovative practice.

Related article: Powerlink debuts tallest ever transmission towers

Under this new agreement, Powerlink and RTE international can now collaborate to provide engineering consultancy services to work on live substations on transmission networks to more than 20 countries across the Asia Pacific region.

Powerlink chief operating officer Gary Edwards said there were significant advantages to this highly specialised work practice.

“The innovation of live substation work methodologies allows us to ensure the safe, cost-effective, and reliable performance of the transmission network. It also delivers efficiencies by removing the need for planned outages,” he said.

“Our team of highly skilled experts have been conducting this work since 2001, which allows the transmission network to remain ‘live’ while critical works are being completed and reducing potential impacts on customers.

“We pride ourselves on being the only Australian transmission company able to do this type of highly specialised work, with strict assessments, equipment and protections in place to safely complete the most complex of jobs.

“I am proud RTEi have put their ongoing trust in our expertise toward sharing our combined knowledge with other utilities across the Asia Pacific region.”

RTE CEO Veronika Milewski said, “This agreement is symbolic of our close and long-standing working relationship.

Related article: CS Energy partners with Powerlink for 400MWh big battery

“RTE international and Powerlink have been leading providers of high voltage transmission network services for many years and this agreement gives access to the industry’s best technical experts.”

“We look forward to the evolution of our relationship and the expansion of our business and expertise to others within the Asia-Pacific region.”

The post Powerlink inks deal with RTEi for APAC region appeared first on Energy Source & Distribution.

This package will fast-track development of the project’s design standards for the expanded 500kV transmission line from Townsville to Hughenden, plus associated works.

Related article: Queensland Govt announces funding for CopperString 2.0

Powerlink CEO Paul Simshauser said this was a significant milestone, and marked the first step towards the practical delivery of this $5 billion landmark project for North Queensland.

“As we work towards construction commencing in 2024, the early works package is progressing under the Early Contractor Involvement Agreement between Powerlink and the UGL/CPB Contractors Joint Venture,” Simshauser said.

“This means the project can progress key engineering design, detailed investigation works and approvals so we can move into the construction phase to connect the North West Minerals Province to the national electricity grid.

“With Joint Venture partners UGL and CPB Contractors now on-board, we will be fast-tracking development of the design standards for the expanded 500kV transmission line from Townsville to Hughenden as well as associated works to progress the project towards construction commencing in 2024.”

Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen Mick de Brenni said approximately 800 jobs would be supported through project construction.

Related article: Queensland Budget allocates $19b for renewables transition

“Copperstring 2032 will be connected to the Queensland SuperGrid, the nation’s largest energy grid, meaning that wherever energy is generated–we can capture it, send it, store it, and use it wherever it is needed,” Minister de Brenni said.

“As CopperString 2032 progresses we’re also set to see a number of high quality renewables resources become available in the Hughenden region – a region that has the potential to become Australia’s largest Renewable Energy Zone (REZ).”

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The Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen, Mick de Brenni, was joined by officials from Cubico and Stanwell last week to officially launch the project as part of the Palaszczuk Government’s Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan.

Related article: Queensland commits to 80% renewables by 2035

The milestone comes less than a week after the government announced a further half a billion dollars of investment to propel the development of large-scale solar and wind projects, and its commitment to maintain a majority share in energy generation.

The Wambo Wind Farm is backed by a $192.5 million investment from the Palaszczuk Government’s Renewable Energy and Hydrogen Jobs Fund for Stanwell’s 50% share in the project.

The wind farm, which will soon vaunt some of the largest onshore wind turbines in the nation, at 247m is the latest project to join Stanwell’s rapidly advancing portfolio of renewable energy assets to support the Queensland Energy and Jobs plan target of 80% renewable energy by 2035.

The project, and its grid connection, is anticipated to create around 450 jobs in construction with clean energy set to protect jobs in Queensland’s biggest industries, including mining, manufacturing, and agriculture.

Wambo Wind Farm is being delivered by two publicly owned Queensland energy companies, Powerlink Queensland for grid connection works, and Stanwell Corporation as a joint venture partnership with Cubico Sustainable Investments.

Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen Mick de Brenni said, “Today marks another important step forward to Queensland’s renewable energy future—starting construction of the Wambo Wind Farm, and propelling us closer to our renewable energy target of 50% renewable energy by 2030, and 80% renewable energy by 2035.

“The Wambo Wind Farm is a prime example of the Palaszczuk Government partnering with the private sector to deliver clean energy to Queenslanders, while retaining control of the energy system.

“The power generated by the 42 wind turbines northwest of Dalby will be sent to the Queensland SuperGrid in 2025, to be connected to the state’s next pumped hydro at Borumba, west of the Sunshine Coast in 2032.”

Cubico country head Australia David Smith said,“Cubico has been developing Wambo Wind Farm with Renewable Energy Partners since 2019, so we’re incredibly excited to have moved into construction for stage 1 of the project.

Related article: Spotlight on the SuperGrid

“This is a real landmark in Queensland’s transition from coal to renewables and we’ve been very pleased to partner with the Queensland Government, Stanwell and Powerlink, which all share in our commitment to decarbonise Australia.

“Importantly, the project will play a significant role in supporting the Queensland Government’s Energy and Jobs Plan, and we are proud to be at the forefront of providing a transition to renewables for energy workers.”

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Powerlink executive general manager operations and service delivery Gary Edwards said the inspections were essential to Powerlink’s ongoing maintenance program across Queensland.

Related article: Powerlink asks Queenslanders to use energy wisely during heatwave

“Helicopter inspections are an efficient and cost-effective way of identifying vegetation encroachments along transmission line easements and checking our infrastructure for any maintenance issues,” Edwards said.

“Our aim is to be as quick and non-disruptive as we can when completing these inspections as we want to minimise any potential disturbance to local residents near our transmission lines while this essential work is carried out. We appreciate their cooperation and patience.”

Inspections will take place from April to June (weather permitting) in areas of southern Queensland where Powerlink’s transmission network is located.

Edwards said during the aerial inspections, the helicopter pilot would endeavour to maintain the maximum distance practically possible from houses, livestock and crops.

Related article: Powercor calls in helicopters for high-wire act

“Local residents may see the helicopter moving relatively quickly and at a low level along our transmission lines, and in some instances, it may need to hover to enable closer inspection of the lines,” he said.

Edwards said Powerlink was aware that low-flying helicopters had the potential to startle livestock and encouraged anyone with questions about the patrols and the planned timing to contact Powerlink for further information.

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