Stanwell is strengthening its firming portfolio with the acquisition of the Lockyer Energy Project from Quinbrook.

Once operational, the gas peaking plants will initially provide around 120 MW of additional fast-ramping, dispatchable energy supply.

The project, around 75 kilometres west of Brisbane in the Lockyer Valley, is strategically located in an energy distribution hub near Gatton at the intersection of the Roma to Brisbane gas pipeline and a 110 kV electricity network substation.

Stanwell CEO Michael O’Rourke said gas generation projects like the Lockyer Energy Project are needed to increase the resilience of our energy system.

“Dispatchable energy is critical to ensuring there is sufficient reliable supply during periods of peak demand,” Mr O’Rourke said.

“Gas-fired plants, as well as other firming and storage projects like battery and pumped hydro complement our existing portfolio by providing fast ramping dispatchable energy on demand to the market and our customers.

“These on-call energy sources that can ramp up or down quickly, help stabilise the grid meaning we can deliver more reliable, affordable and sustainable energy to the National Electricity Market.”

Quinbrook’s Regional Leader, Brian Restall said Quinbrook was pleased to see the Lockyer Energy Project transition to Stanwell for its next phase of development.

“This strategically located asset will be a valuable complement to Stanwell’s existing generation portfolio helping them to strengthen energy reliability and put downward pressure on power prices for all Queenslanders, businesses and households alike, ” Mr Restall said.