CS Energy has partnered with GE Vernova for the supply of hydrogen-ready peaking generation units for the Brigalow Peaking Power Plant, to be rolled out at the future Kogan Creek clean energy hub in the Western Downs.
CS Energy CEO Darren Busine said CS Energy is dedicated to ensuring a balanced energy mix that meets customers’ decarbonisation needs and supports the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan.
“The open-cycle design of the Brigalow Peaking Power Plant provides the ability for multiple start/stop cycles per day and the ability to ramp up to full power output within five minute,” Busine stated.
“This project is an example of how we are creating clean energy hubs at our power stations to deliver the energy mix needed to reliably transition the grid to renewable energy while also providing opportunities for our workforce to reskill,” he added.
The peaking plant will initially be capable of operating on 35% renewable hydrogen, with a potential to reach 100% hydrogen over time.
According to the Queensland Government, the open-cycle power station will provide Queenslanders with energy security, offering fast start capability and high-demand operation for variable solar and wind energy.
“The Brigalow Peaking Power Plant demonstrates the opportunity for real action on climate change, moving away from fossil-fuels to green hydrogen produced here in Queensland from our abundant sun, wind and water,” Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen Mick de Brenni said.
“We know that green hydrogen has the potential to deliver 10,000 jobs and boost the economy by $33 billion by 2040, and that is why we’re backing this venture, as part of our commitment to the greatest jobs, climate and export opportunity in a generation,” Minister de Brenni added.
The Brigalow Peaking Power Plant is expected to be operational in 2026, subject to final approvals.
“Queensland clean energy economy will need a mix of renewable energy, firming technology and high capacity transmission,” Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment Cameron Dick said.
Treasurer Dick stated that the Queensland Renewable Energy and Hydrogen Jobs Fund is supporting the Brigalow Peaking Power Plant, as up to three gigawatts of additional low-to-zero emission gas are needed for peak demand and backup security by 2035.
GE Vernova Gas Power President and CEO Eric Gray said, “We are honored to be considered to provide our highly efficient and flexible gas turbine technology for this project to supply homes and businesses in Queensland with affordable, reliable and sustainable electricity.”
