The $36 million Tarong Power Station overhaul is set to employ a peak workforce of over 500, and boost the South Burnett region’s economy.
Queensland Energy Minister, Dr Anthony Lynham, said that the two-month overhaul of Unit 2 was part of the power station’s regular maintenance works, bringing extra workers on site in addition to the station’s permanent workforce as the world deals with the impacts of the global coronavirus pandemic.
“Queensland’s publicly-owned energy companies are playing a central role in Queensland’s economy plan for recovery,” Dr Lynham said.
“They are supplying affordable and reliable power during these unprecedented times, and also investing in infrastructure and creating jobs to support our COVID-19 road to recovery plan.
“This overhaul will mean work for more than 30 South Burnett locals, as well as other workers bringing in all the flow-on benefits to local accommodation and hospitality providers, as well as the transport industry.
“Our publicly owned energy companies forecast a spend of around $1.8 billion this financial year, supporting nearly 4000 jobs.”
Dr Lynham said Tarong Power Station’s publicly-owned operator, Stanwell Corp, would be putting in place COVID-safe measures to ensure the health safety of all the workers and the local community.
A combined $110 million worth of maintenance works is also progressing at two central Queensland power stations: Stanwell Power Station outside Rockhampton and CS Energy’s Callide Power Station near Biloela.
“Together these projects are supporting work for around 200 contractors and 150 local jobs,” Dr Lynham said.
“That’s Queenslanders’ energy assets helping rebuild the economy and deliver on Queensland’s plan to unite and recover from COVID-19.”
