The Queensland Renewable Energy Council has welcomed progress on four major battery storage projects across the State, saying the milestones demonstrate the role of renewable energy, firmed by storage, in delivering more affordable, reliable and sustainable power for Queensland households and businesses.
QREC Chief Executive Officer Katie-Anne Mulder said the progress of large-scale batteries at Brendale north of Brisbane, Broadsound and Stanwell in central Queensland, and Woolooga near Gympie was consistent with the Queensland Government’s Energy Roadmap, released last year, and its focus on additional generation and storage.
“Queensland’s energy future depends on increasing generation, firming and storage connected to the grid, so power is available when needed and can be reliably supplied to homes and businesses across the state,” she said.
“Battery projects are an essential part of a modern energy system, storing energy when it is abundant and dispatching it when Queenslanders need it most, particularly during evening peak demand.”
QREC said the four projects, providing a combined 940 MW of storage once fully operational, reinforce Queensland’s growing role as a leading market for large-scale battery investment.
“The Australian Energy Regulator and Queensland Competition Authority have both pointed to the role of increased renewable generation, supported by storage and firming, in helping reduce electricity costs for Queensland households and businesses,” Ms Mulder said.
“That is why momentum matters. Every project reaching connection, commissioning or operation helps build the reliable, lower-cost energy system Queensland needs.”
As Treasurer and Energy Minister David Janetzki said: “More storage on the grid means more supply when Queenslanders need it most and more downward pressure on prices.”
QREC said the progress also highlighted the importance of efficient project approvals at both State and Federal levels, so generation, storage and transmission projects can be delivered in time to support affordability, reliability and regional investment.
“Queensland has an enviable pipeline of renewable energy and storage projects, but delivery depends on clear and predictable approval pathways, timely grid build-out and coordinated development,” Ms Mulder said.
“State and Federal approval reforms must remain focused on reducing duplication, improving certainty and supporting responsible projects that deliver community, economic and energy system benefits.”
Ms Mulder said the projects also represent important economic development and employment opportunities for regional Queensland.
As Minister for Finance, Trade, Skills and Training Ros Bates said: “By securing these investments from Quinbrook and Iberdrola, we are strengthening Queensland’s energy future and supporting long term affordability for households and businesses across the State.”