FROM BEIJING TO THE BACK OF BOURKE
GENEX’S Kidston renewable energy project has been granted “critical infrastructure” status to cut red tape and give the development greater certainty.
The State Government made the declaration yesterday, recognising the project, 280km northwest of Townsville, was “critical or essential for the state for economic, environmental or social reasons”.
The plan was also granted an expansion of its prescribed project status, which now includes the proposed 270MW Kidston Solar Project area, an existing water pipeline easement from Copperfield Dam, and a 180km easement for a 275kV transmission line between the site and Mount Fox.
State Development Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said prescribed project powers and critical infrastructure status would help deliver the project and ensure timely approvals.
“This is about supporting a project that will help deliver a reliable renewable energy source and support hundreds of jobs,” he said.
Genex managing director Michael Addison said the move enabled the company to fast track the development of its Stage 2 projects.
Kidston’s 50MW first stage is under construction and expected to be completed this year. Its 270MW Stage 2 is due to be completed in early 2020, with plans for a 250MW hydro- electric power station by 2021.