Powerlink has finished building eight transmission towers to connect the new Columboola solar farm, north-east of Miles, to the grid.

Powerlink chief executive Paul Simshauser said the organisation was constructing 2km of transmission line and completing works at its Columboola substation as part of the renewable energy project.  

“Assembling the transmission towers was no easy feat, with each tower comprising 15 tonnes of steel atop 30 cubic metres of concrete foundations, extending up to six metres underground,” Mr Simshauser said.

“Our specialised crews will shortly commence works to string the powerline wires between the newly-built towers, which involves using a draw wire to expertly thread and tension the powerline wire.

“This new stretch of line will cross directly under an existing 275kV transmission line, increasing the technical complexity of this task.

“A range of comprehensive inspections and commissioning tests will then be conducted prior to safely energising the transmission line, which is expected to occur in mid-2021.

“We are proud to play a key role in enabling the renewable energy generated at Columboola solar farm to be delivered to the National Electricity Market.”

Hana Financial Investment’s 162MW Columboola solar farm signals the continuation of the renewable energy boom in the Western Downs, with the site expected to power the equivalent of 100,000 homes.

Hana Financial Investment deputy general manager Jaewon Lee said the company planned to continue to develop renewable projects in Queensland.

Sterling & Wilson Australia is the main EPC contractor for the Columboola solar farm project.