One step closer for Queensland’s renewable energy generator

Queensland’s new renewable energy generator has its first two key executives.

Former Infigen Energy boss Miles George is CleanCo’s interim chief executive officer and Geoff Dutaillis has been appointed executive general manager – transition.

Deputy Premier and Treasurer Jackie Trad said the new appointees had more than 30 years’ experience in the renewable energy sector between them.

“These two highly-experienced executives are already on deck, leading the smooth establishment of the publicly-owned generator with Chair, Jacqui Walters,” Ms Trad said.

“The establishment of CleanCo demonstrates the Government’s commitment to addressing climate change, public ownership of energy assets and continuing to put downward pressure on electricity prices.”

Energy Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said CleanCo’s establishment was progressing and the company would start operating in the National Electricity Market in 2019 subject to regulatory approvals.

“CleanCo’s role is to support the ongoing growth of Queensland’s expanding renewable energy industry, which already has 21 large-scale renewable energy projects with a generation capacity of 2000 megawatts,” he said.

“CleanCo will build, own and operate renewable generation, continuing this government’s strong commitment to public ownership of our electricity assets.”

“Once established, CleanCo will support our ongoing efforts to place downward pressure on electricity prices and move steadily towards our target of 50 per cent renewables by 2030.”

CleanCo’s initial portfolio will be existing renewable and low emission energy generation assets: the Wivenhoe pumped storage hydro plant, Swanbank E gas-fired power station, and the Barron Gorge, Kareeya and Koombooloomba hydro power stations.

Media contact: Jan Martin 0439 341 314

Brief bios

Mr George has more than 30 years’ experience in project development, investment, financing and general management in the energy and infrastructure sectors in Australia, the United States and Europe. He is a member of the Expert Panel of electricity industry leaders assisting the Australian Energy Market Operator, former chief executive and managing director of Infigen Energy Ltd and chair of the Australian Clean Energy 

Mr Dutaillis’ has extensive international renewable energy sector experience including as CEO Australia at Wind Energy Holding Co Ltd, Energy and Sustainability Advisory, and on organisations including the Green Building Council of Australia, Group Head of Sustainability at Lendlease and Chief Operating Officer at Infigen Energy.