Plans for green energy Super Hub unveiled for NQ

Fortescue Future Industries and Windlab have detailed planning underway for a North Queensland Super Hub to pump out renewable energy and support large-scale green hydrogen production. The new Super Hub - described as one of Queensland’s largest ever renewable energy projects - will bring together wind and solar projects to generate more than 10 gigawatts of power. The first stage of the development will include the 800MW Prairie wind farm and the 1000MW Wongalee project, both in the Prairie area, about 300km south-west of Townsville. Construction is expected to commence on the first stage by 2025, with the projects producing clean, green power by 2027. Fortescue Future Industries (FFI) chief executive officer Mark Hutchinson said the opportunity to develop the North Queensland Super Hub was a game-changer for Queensland. “This is about ensuring Queensland and Australia are in the best possible position to play a leading role in the production and supply of green hydrogen globally," he said. “For the first time, the North Queensland Super Hub will provide the quantity of green energy we need to support large-scale green hydrogen production right here in Queensland. “The environmental and economic opportunities that stem from this are significant, both in terms of lowering emissions and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and in terms of local job creation.” The announcement comes on the back of FFI’s investment in establishing the world’s largest electrolyser manufacturing facility in Gladstone. Windlab chief executive officer John Martin said the company had spent a decade learning about the region’s renewable resources, while building relationships with local stakeholders and the community. “Windlab's experience and track record on the ground demonstrates our commitment to meaningful partnerships with local landowners and communities, and a clear focus on delivering the best performing assets while managing any potential impacts in a way that meets stakeholder expectations,” Mr Martin said. “The North Queensland Super Hub presents a high-yield, complementary wind and solar resource in region ideally suited for multiple offtake opportunities, while being compatible with the existing land use. “This facility marks a big step towards realising our strategic, scalable development plan that leverages the region’s untapped renewable energy base to transform Australia’s electricity market and drive the nation’s clean energy transition.” Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the North Queensland Super Hub would accelerate the development of Northern Queensland Renewable Energy Zone (QREZ) and sit at the heart of Queensland’s SuperGrid. “Our SuperGrid – made up of wind and solar projects, battery storage and pumped hydro – will supply Queensland with clean, affordable and reliable energy in the decades ahead,” Ms Palaszczuk said.

Plans for green energy Super Hub unveiled for NQ

Industry Queensland

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