Mickel appeared at the Parliamentary Energy Estimates Committee last Friday, claiming the state’s adoption of hi-tech solar, hydro and geothermal projects were helping to meet regional energy supply challenges.
State-owned utility Stanwell Corporation’s $A28 million upgrade and recommissioning works at the Barron Gorge Hydro project have extended the operating lifespan of the power plant by another 40 years, Mickel told the committee, representing a significant investment in renewable energy in Far North Queensland.
In the southwest of the state, Ergon Energy is preparing for a $2.5 million trial of concentrated solar energy technology that will offset up to 100,000 litres of diesel used in generators each year.
“The project aims to generate about 360,000 kilowatt hours of electricity a year by 2008, enough to provide all Windorah's daytime electricity needs," Mickel said.
Ergon estimates the offset diesel consumption will help the company reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by up to 250 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent per year.
Ergon is also conducting a feasibility study into expanding Australia's only operating geothermal power station at Birdsville.
“The power station uses hot water pumped from the Great Artesian Basin to supply about a quarter of Birdsville's energy needs," Mickel said.
“The Ergon Energy study is investigating expanding that to provide 100 percent of the town's power, eliminating the need for diesel or other fuel."
Mickel said the Queensland Government expected further success in geothermal technology following the five successful tenders for geothermal exploration leases in Western Queensland and South West Queensland earlier this year.
Mickel also reported advances in sustainable energy made in his other portfolio responsibility as minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander policy through the Badu Island Solar Towns Pilot Project.
The solar project is a joint initiative between the Queensland Environmental Protection Agency and Ergon Energy, with solar panels installed at civic buildings including the island’s police station, child and health care centres, council chambers, the business centre and the Badu Island State School.
