The expansion involves constructing a 120MW nominal peaking power generator next door to the existing 95MW facility.

Natural gas will be supplied to the plant via the SEA Gas Pipeline that connects Adelaide with the southeast Australian network.

Origin said it would sign a contract with GE Electric today for the supply of a 120MW Frame 9E gas turbine generator set. The Urban Development and Planning minister approved the development in March.

The expansion is due to be completed in the December quarter of 2008, in time to provide additional peak electricity capacity for the summer of 2008-09.

Managing director Grant King said the additional peaking capacity would help secure electricity supplies in the state, while helping Origin to balance its risk exposure.

“The power station will take advantage of open cycle gas turbine technology to provide clean burning peaking power and will help maintain the state’s comparatively low greenhouse gas emissions intensity,” he said.

“The expansion also reflects the deepening integration of Origin’s energy business across eastern Australia. Natural gas for this new power station will come from our extensive gas supply portfolio, while the electricity generated will support our growing retail business.”

In addition to the supply and installation of the gas turbine-generator, GE Energy will provide technical advisory and training services and spare parts for the Quarantine project.