$20 million investment in Central Queensland electricity hub

A $20 million investment in Powerlink Queensland’s transmission network in Central Queensland is set to further secure electricity supply to the region and support continued economic growth.

The project involves an overhaul of systems and equipment at Powerlink’s Calvale Substation, near Biloela, which is a vital hub in the high voltage network transporting power from Callide Power Station across the network to Gladstone and other parts of the State.

Powerlink chief executive Merryn York said the major investment will support growth in one of the key drivers of the Queensland economy.

“Powerlink plays an important role in powering the Queensland economy, being responsible for the reliable supply of electricity to industry across the state,” Ms York said.

“The $20 million investment will support economic growth in this region, as well as support 50 jobs.

“The work will also further improve the performance and reliability of the high voltage network in Central Queensland.”

The Gladstone region is one of Queensland’s major export gateways and home to two of the world’s largest alumina refineries.

Ms York said the work would extend the life of the existing Calvale Substation to around 2033, and will also improve the ability to respond to network issues.

“The focus of the work will be on replacing the systems which allow us to manage our network in this region remotely,” Ms York said.

“These systems are critical to monitoring and operating our assets if a fault occurs and responding to any issues in a timely manner.”

Works have been scheduled to align with maintenance work at the Callide Power Station to ensure there are no supply impacts to consumers or customers directly connected to the transmission network.

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