Construction has commenced on a groundbreaking Tesla Megapack project in Swanbank, Queensland, heralding the transformation of a former coal plant site into a sustainable energy hub. The initiative, a collaboration between Yurika and CleanCo, was announced in a press release on Monday.
Funded by the Queensland Renewable Energy and Hydrogen Jobs Fund to the tune of $330 million, the project marks a significant step towards clean energy transition. The 250MW/500MWh Tesla Megapack installation is poised to revolutionize energy storage capabilities, boasting enough capacity to power over two-thirds of Ipswich for two hours nightly, addressing peak demand periods after sunset.
Belinda Watton, Executive General Manager of Yurika, expressed enthusiasm for the venture, stating, “Energy infrastructure is at the core of what we do, and we’re really looking forward to the partnership with CleanCo Queensland, Tesla, and of course the local community to reimagine Swanbank through its Clean Energy Hub.”
Scheduled for energization by mid-2025, the Swanbank project underscores Queensland’s commitment to clean energy initiatives. Notably, this marks CleanCo’s inaugural foray into large-scale battery storage, with an estimated 60 jobs to be generated during construction and an additional 10 full-time positions upon project completion.
This endeavor represents a broader trend in Australia towards renewable energy adoption, aligning with the Miles Labor Government’s Big Energy Build initiative. Moreover, the project’s significance is underscored by its location on the grounds of a decommissioned coal plant, symbolizing a shift away from fossil fuels towards sustainable alternatives.
Mick de Brenni, Queensland Minister for Energy and Clean Economy Jobs, emphasized the project’s importance in advancing the state’s decarbonization efforts, remarking, “This big battery is proof the Miles Government is taking real action to decarbonise our state’s economy in a way that makes the cost of living more affordable for Queenslanders.”
As construction progresses, anticipation mounts for the arrival of the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), comprising Tesla Megapacks, later this year. The initiative not only signals a monumental stride in clean energy innovation but also underscores Queensland’s proactive stance in addressing climate change while fostering economic growth.
