Powerlink Queensland has established a new transmission hub and training centre that will act as a regional base for training energy workers, improving their skills for a growing workforce and supporting the changing focus in Gladstone.
The Queensland SuperGrid Training Centre and Transmission Hub have been established in Gladstone in the interim while Powerlink finalises the acquisition of a permanent site, with construction expected to commence for the long-term facility in 2024.
The facility has been set up in the Central Queensland Renewable Energy Zone and is expected to assist with a number of regional future transmission projects.
It is expected to help continuously upskill energy workers and support the delivery of the energy transformation outlined in the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan.
According to Powerlink, the hub will allow it to strengthen its regional presence and better train workers in a range of areas, including high-voltage technical training.
According to Member for Gladstone Glenn Butcher, the hub is expected to provide a boost in local employment and training opportunities, with more than 90 jobs expected to be based at the facility over the next decade.
“This investment demonstrates the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to providing tangible and practical job opportunities for our local people, including apprentices, as we gear up to expand the skills and resources available to deliver the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan,” Butcher added.
Meanwhile, Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen Minister Mick de Brenni said the SuperGrid will help unlock over 100,000 new jobs in energy generation, green hydrogen, critical minerals mining and battery manufacturing.
“It’s facilities like these which bring the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan to life, setting a clear path to deliver the clean, reliable and affordable energy of the future while delivering on our renewable energy targets,” de Brenni stated.
Gladstone Region Mayor Matt Burnett said Gladstone welcomes the new hub as it brings a variety of new employment and training opportunities in an evolving sector.
