A major milestone has been reached in the Genex Kidston Connection Project, with Powerlink installing the first of 348 transmission towers at the site.
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.”
