CS Energy is partnering with the Gladstone Engineering Alliance (GEA) to map the capability of local suppliers to work on new wind energy developments in Central Queensland.

GEA general manager Peter Masters said the region was at the forefront of what was needed to innovate and diversify in the energy transition.

“GEA are pleased to partner with CS Energy to deliver the capability mapping portal which will provide great benefit to our local business community throughout Central Queensland and help them prepare to take advantage of the opportunities associated with wind,” Mr Masters said.

Earlier this year CS Energy signed a Memorandum of Understanding with EDF Renewables for the 230 MW Banana Range Wind Farm, with CS Energy considering both an offtake agreement and equity participation for the wind farm.

The government-owned corporation is also working with the Banana Shire Council as it plans for the future at and around its Callide power station site near Biloela.

Queensland’s Assistant Minister for Hydrogen Development and the 50 per cent Renewable Energy Target by 2030 Lance McCallum announced the capability mapping project during his speech at the GEA Major Industry and Energy Conference in Gladstone.

Related: CS Energy gets behind CQ wind farm

Mr McCallum said the supply chain mapping project would support CS Energy’s plans to add wind generation to its portfolio to help meet Queensland’s new renewable energy targets under the new $62 billion Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan.

“This supply chain mapping project will help uncover the existing expertise in the region and the capability of local businesses to provide services to support the construction, operation and maintenance of wind projects,” Mr McCallum said.

“Our new Queensland SuperGrid will need over 2000 new wind turbines, including new projects in Central Queensland.

“We want to help local businesses along the renewable supply chain seize this enormous opportunity.

“The initiative is based on similar projects conducted by Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise, including a hydrogen skills mapping partnership with CS Energy to support their renewable hydrogen demonstration project at Kogan Creek.”

GEA and CS Energy will provide a web page with more information for suppliers and how they can be involved later this month.