A $90 million overhaul is underway at the Tarong power complex, 45 km south-east of Kingaroy, as part of Stanwell’s ongoing maintenance program.  

The Unit 3 overhaul, which kicked off on August 21, will see hundreds of contractors work alongside Stanwell’s Tarong Power Station workforce over the coming months.

Key businesses involved include UGL, Siemens, Actemium, RIE Group, Temmco, GE Grid, CSA, MFI and SRG Global.

Southern generation general manager Mick Joy said each unit at the Tarong power complex underwent a major overhaul every four years. 

“This regular maintenance schedule helps ensure the Tarong power stations continue operating safely and efficiently, supporting the reliability and availability needed to meet Queensland’s energy needs,” Mr Joy said. 

“Following the completion of Unit 1 earlier this year, our teams and contractors are now delivering another significant program of work with the overhaul of Unit 3 underway. 

“Major overhauls are a planned and essential part of operating a power station safely and reliably, helping ensure our generating assets continue to perform when Queensland needs them most. 

“The work includes detailed inspections, maintenance, refurbishment and replacement of plant and equipment to support the safe, efficient and reliable operation of Unit 3 for years to come.” 

Mr Joy said about 500 additional tradespeople and technical contractors were needed during each overhaul, including electricians, boilermakers, riggers, fitters and welders. 

“This temporary increase in workforce reflects the scale of the critical maintenance program and the specialist capability required to complete the work while Unit 3 is offline,” he said. 

Mr Joy said the Tarong overhaul would support businesses and suppliers across the South Burnett region. 

“Each overhaul contributes around $10 million to the local economy through local procurement and increased spending across accommodation, hospitality, transport and other services,” he said. 

“Stanwell has been part of the South Burnett community for decades and we’re proud that investments in maintaining our assets also support local businesses, jobs and regional economic activity.” 

Related: Stanwell flicks the switch on Tarong Battery

The Tarong Unit 3 overhaul supports Stanwell’s commitments under the Queensland Government’s Electricity Maintenance Guarantee.

Stanwell’s Tarong and Stanwell coal-fired power stations produce about a third of the state’s energy needs. 

• This story was updated on August 29 to include the names of contractors involved in the overhaul.