$50 MILLION UPGRADE FOR TARONG POWER STATION

A $50 million project to upgrade Tarong Power Station, one of Queensland’s largest power stations, would boost jobs and businesses in the South Burnett region, Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said today.

Tarong Energy has chosen the engineering firm Siemens to provide a new, computerised control system for its Tarong Power Station at Nanango, 180 kilometres west of Brisbane.

Minister Wilson said that up to 35 extra jobs would be created at the power station while the new system was being installed.

“The control system is the station’s nerve centre and this new state-of-the-art technology will help ensure the power station operates safely and reliably for the next 30 years,” he said.

“It’s a significant investment in the state’s electricity network and it will help support an increase in electricity demand as our population continues to grow,” he said.

Mr Wilson said Tarong Energy Corporation had the capacity to supply about a quarter of Queensland’s electricity and was currently operating its Nanango-based power station with the same technology it used when it was commissioned in the 1980’s.

The upgrades would be carried out in four stages starting from next year and would be done at the same time as the planned outages for major overhauls.

Chief Executive Officer of Tarong Energy Corporation, Helen Gluer said the organisation was looking forward to working with Siemens on the upgrade.

“They have an excellent track record in delivering high-quality projects, on time and within budget.

“The upgrade will help ensure Tarong Power Station remains a long-term, viable asset to provide a reliable and secure electricity supply to Queensland,” Ms Gluer said.

The upgrade is expected to be completed by the end of 2010.

Media Inquiries: Minister’s Office Ellen McIntyre 3225 1819

Tarong Energy Ian McGoldrick 3228 4550