Renewable energy training facility gets the green light

The renewable energy sector workforce is expected to be given a boost thanks to a Queensland Government decision that will see a state-of-the-art renewable energy training facility at Pinkenba for the electrical industry.

Deputy Premier and Planning Minister Steven Miles said this is a great example of the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to reaching its 50 per cent renewable target by 2030.

“As Planning Minister, I have approved a Ministerial Infrastructure Designation for the Pinkenba Renewable Energy Training Facility,” Mr Miles said.

“The specialised training facility will provide pre-trade, apprenticeship and post trade courses for up to 300 students at a time and support 40 teaching positions.  

“While we’re investing in renewable energy projects throughout the state, it is also important we invest in our workforce to deliver and maintain renewable energy infrastructure.

“The Ministerial Infrastructure Designation process will enable Electro Group to start construction and welcome students as soon as possible.

“Accelerating construction of infrastructure that benefits the community and creates jobs is part of Queensland’s COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan.”

Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen Mick de Brenni said the Palaszczuk Government was investing $17 million towards the $23 million facility.

“Meeting our renewable energy target relies on having a pipeline of skilled Queenslanders ready to build and operate the energy infrastructure a growing industrial State needs,” Mr de Brenni said.

“That’s exactly what the Pinkenba Renewable Energy Training Facility will deliver, with electrical, solar and telecommunications training to be offered to hundreds of Queenslanders each year.

“This facility will ensure our electrical industry is up to the challenge as new renewable energy technology opens up more opportunities for global investors in Queensland.”Electro Group CEO Donna Pickford said that construction is set to start in September 2021.

“Our facility, will provide electrical workers with classroom learning and out in the field training, which will feature a 17m high wind turbine, a 20m high climbing tower, a 30m telecommunications tower and a 54 kw single axis tracking solar system,” Ms Pickford said.

“Being able to provide both current and future electrical workers with this hands-on experience will mean they’ll be fully equipped to take on the jobs of tomorrow.

“We’re excited to be moving forward with this project and we’re looking forward to welcoming our first students in mid-2022.”

The facility received approval through the MID process, which is an alternative development process for the delivery of community infrastructure, including education facilities.

As part of the MID process, Electro Group sought feedback from a range of key stakeholders, including the council and the local community.

The decision notice is available at https://planning.dsdmip.qld.gov.au/planning/better-development/infrastructure-designations.

ENDS

Media contact:           Katharine Wright – 0428 957 903 / Amy Hunter - 0423 651 484