Electricity generator Stanwell aims to extend its Meandu mine by about 186ha to continue to supply the Tarong power stations through to the forecast technical end of their lives.

The thermal coal mine is located 45km south-east of Kingaroy, in Queensland’s South Burnett region.

The proposed 7 per cent extension of the mining area within the existing mining lease is known as the King 2 East project.

“In order to progress the King 2 East project, it has been referred to the Commonwealth Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment for determination on whether it is considered a controlled action under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (EPBC),” a Stanwell spokeswoman said.

“If the project is considered a controlled action, approval from the Commonwealth department will be required. If it is not considered a controlled action, then the Commonwealth approval process is complete.” 

Details of Stanwell’s application are be published on the Commonwealth website for community review. (Visit HERE)

The extension will enable the continuation of mining activity up to 2037-2039.

The Stanwell spokeswoman said the Tarong power stations, which were among the youngest and most reliable generators in the National Electricity Market, would continue to provide a secure supply of electricity as the market transitioned towards a lower carbon future.

“The project has a significantly smaller environmental impact than the establishment of new mining pits or a new coal mine and will provide substantial commercial and community benefits for Queensland,” she said. 

She said Stanwell was working with its neighbours and local community to ensure any concerns or questions about the project were addressed in the planning and approvals process.