Hydro-electric plan for Burdekin Falls Dam in far north Queensland
SHE might have insulted the Prime Minister, but Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk is also flattering him by imitating one of his grand schemes. Interactive poll data tracker
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A MAJOR new hydro-electric power station will be built at Queensland’s largest dam under plans by the State Government.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk will today announce an investigation into establishing a plant to harness the force of water through the Burdekin Falls Dam in far north Queensland, to generate enough energy to power more than 30,000 homes.
The plan is reminiscent of Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull’s scheme to revitalise the Snowy Mountains hydro-electric project.
Ms Palaszczuk is calling on the Federal Government to partner with the Queensland Government as a business case is developed, and support the project through loans via its $5 billion North Australia Infrastructure Facility or grants.
“This project is critical for the development of Northern Australia,’’ Ms Palaszczuk said.
“With the support of the NAIF and the investment by the Queensland Government in the development of a business case, this nation-building project can become a reality.’’
A hydro-electric power station is expected to cost more than $200 million and create over 150 jobs.
The Building Queensland infrastructure agency is already assessing a proposal to raise the capacity of the dam, southwest of Charters Towers, by 150,000 megalitres to over two million.
“The Burdekin Falls Dam is already the largest in Queensland, holding four times the capacity of Sydney Harbour,’’ Ms Palaszczuk said.
The State Government aims to generate half of Queensland’s energy from renewable sources such as solar, wind and water by 2030.
Ms Palaszczuk says kickstarting the plan could boost electricity generation to meet peak demand, enhance energy security for the state’s north and lower costs.
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