With the grid-connected battery at Tanby, Central Queensland is stepping up its participation in Queensland’s renewable energy revolution.
Deputy Premier and State Development Minister Steven Miles said the $8 million battery was a crucial and cutting-edge addition to the Central Queensland energy infrastructure that improved services for locals.
“We know there’s been a huge uptake in rooftop solar energy in Yeppoon and Rockhampton and this investment will drive even more. It means renewable energy made during Central Queensland’s many sunny days can be stored to use during peak demand periods in the evening,” Miles stated.
Miles added the battery would deliver cheaper, cleaner energy for homes and businesses, and have the capacity for even more renewables in Central Queensland.
Assistant Minister to the Premier for Veterans’ Affairs, Trade and COVID Economic Recovery Bart Mellish expressed his excitement to see the Tanby battery now operational.
“As Queensland progresses toward its renewable energy target, batteries, firming and other storage options will become increasingly important. Large-scale batteries like the one in Yeppoon allow us to capture the cheap and clean energy generated by Queenslanders, particularly rooftop solar, and best use it to drive down power bills and ease the cost of living,” Mellish stated.
According to Mellish, projects such as Tanby’s battery also help generate jobs for the people in Central Queensland and provide better services as well.
Member for Rockhampton Barry O’Rourke said in order to supply the rising need for essential minerals, batteries, and components both domestically and internationally, Queensland’s strong mining tradition will continue to expand.
“Queensland is home to vast amounts of nickel, cobalt, vanadium, and zinc, and it’s our workforce that will make the most of the opportunity to refine, manufacture, and export what the world needs to power its clean energy future. I’m particularly excited that the forum members get to be part of this momentous occasion, unlocking an investment in good clean energy jobs, better grid services, and a great lifestyle in regional Queensland,” O’Rourke stated.
The Queensland Government said participants in the Central Queensland Regional Community Forum had the opportunity to examine the Tanby battery.
