Central Queensland is stepping up in Queensland's renewable energy revolution with cheap, clean energy now being exported via a new grid connected battery at Tanby, south of Yeppoon.
Deputy Premier and State Development Minister Steven Miles said the $8 million battery was an important and innovative addition to the electricity grid in Central Queensland, providing a better service for residents.
"We know there's been a huge uptake in rooftop solar energy in Yeppoon and Rockhampton and this investment will drive even more," Mr Miles said.
"It means renewable energy made during Central Queensland's many sunny days can be stored to use during peak demand periods in the evening.
"It will help deliver cheaper, cleaner energy for homes and businesses, and capacity for even more renewables in Central Queensland."
Assistant Minister to the Premier for Veterans' Affairs, Trade and COVID Economic Recovery Bart Mellish said it was exciting 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," Mr Mellish said.
"Large-scale batteries like the one at 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."
"Projects like this also help create good jobs for people in Central Queensland and provide better services too."
Member for Keppel Brittany Lauga said Queensland has the highest rate of household rooftop solar installations in Australia, with 1 in 3 homes using solar.
"Regional Queensland is already playing an enormous role in capturing the State's solar potential, so it's now time to supercharge our local energy security and affordability with these network-connected batteries," Ms Lauga said.
"Collectively, the energy produced by Queensland rooftops is already the largest renewable generator in the state, with our world record amounts of rooftop solar."
Member for Rockhampton Barry O'Rourke said Queensland's proud mining heritage would continue to grow as we meet the increased demand for critical minerals, batteries and components both here and abroad.
"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," Mr O'Rourke said.
"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."
Members of the Central Queensland Regional Community Forum had the chance to take a look at the Tanby battery today.
Photo's can be accessed here: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/2w056wwghi5lm4u/AACoJ_n77dSBNB0DHasAa0TQa?dl=0
