Two transformers to be installed at Lilyvale, Mick de Brenni reveals

Project works are expected to continue into 2022, supporting more than 60 jobs.

One of the two 150-tonne transformers to be installed at Lilyvale.

A $28 million power upgrade across a Central Highlands mining area will be carried out as part of a state government commitment to ensuring the long-term reliability and security of power supply for all Queenslanders.

Two 150-tonne transformers are to be installed at Lilyvale as part of an upgrade to the equipment.

Minister Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen Mick de Brenni said that under the COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan, 62 jobs would be supported by the $28 million transformer and primary plant replacement project.

“Queensland needs significantly more generation to meet our aspirations for growth of our manufacturing and resources sectors, and we will need the transmission infrastructure to deliver it,” he said.

“The Lilyvale Substation was commissioned nearly 40 years ago and its primary equipment is now reaching the end of its service life.

“With the nearby Blackwater and Bowen Basin resources communities relying on secure and safe energy supply to grow Queensland resource jobs, this upgrade will help new investment in our resources sector.”

Queensland Resources Council chief executive Ian Macfarlane said the investment would help secure jobs.

“The resources sector is a key economic pillar in the Central Highlands region, with three quarters of local jobs supported by the sector,” he said.

“Powerlink’s ongoing investment in projects like this will make sure the world’s premier metallurgical coal basin continues to benefit from world-class infrastructure for at least the next forty years.”

Powerlink chief executive Paul Simshauser said civil works had commenced on-site with the project to be completed in stages to minimise impacts on customers.

“The first stage is the installation of two new transformers, weighing 150 tonnes each, which is expected to be completed by September 2021,” Mr Simshauser said.

“Transformers are a significant piece of substation equipment that convert high voltage electricity from the transmission network down to a lower voltage suitable for Ergon Energy’s distribution network, which in turn, delivers electricity to households and businesses.

“Once this stage is complete, the remaining work to replace components like circuit breakers, structures and foundations will start, followed by decommissioning and removal of old equipment.

“Our focus is on extending the life of the substation at the lowest long run cost to customers, and with the least disruption to the local community and industry.”

Project works are expected to continue until late 2022.

Originally published as Two transformers to be installed at Lilyvale, Mick de Brenni reveals