01/10/2025
MEDIA RELEASE
The announcement today of the potential closure of the Gladstone Power Station in 2029 to Australian Energy Market Operator is just a notification of its “potential” closure.
The specific wording in the notice to AEMO is important, and I look forward to working with Power Station Operators and the Queensland and Federal Government to ensure the Gladstone Power Station remains operational beyond the potential closure date in 2029.
The Gladstone Power Station has powered Queensland industry and supported thousands of local families for nearly five decades.
My support of the coal industry and our local power station is well known, and at the same time I support investment in renewable energy, but anyone who believes that there will be adequate renewable energy in the market by 2029 is kidding themselves.
I look forward to seeing the details of the Queensland Government’s Energy Plan next week.
Here is the link to the ABC Drive interview from this afternoon:
https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/north-qld-drive/drive/105825436
Coverage starts with comments from the Mining and Energy Union District Vice President Shane Brunker at 1:44:19
My comments start at 1:47:52
Here is a link to the 7News Central Queensland coverage:
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1AB2Yvkb2k/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Here is the Media statement from the Gladstone Power Station operators:
Notification of potential retirement of Gladstone Power Station
The Gladstone Power Station (GPS) Joint Venture confirms that CS Energy has formally notified the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) of the potential retirement of GPS in March 2029, aligning with the expiry of existing supply and operational arrangements.
The notification ensures compliance with the National Electricity Rules to provide notice of closure of electricity generators 3.5 years in advance. The notice period can be extended at any time.
No final decision has been made to retire GPS, which has operated since 1976, and there is potential to extend the life of the power station should market and other factors allow.
There is no immediate impact of this notification on GPS operations. Existing power supply contracts, including to Boyne Smelters Ltd, will remain in place until their scheduled expiry in March 2029.
The JV participants recognise the contribution of GPS to the Gladstone community and are committed to work with the operator NRG Gladstone Operating Services to ensure transparent and timely engagement with employees, contractors and suppliers throughout this process.
Between now and March 2029, the JV participants will engage with stakeholders on the energy market and on options for the future use of the site, which will inform the timeline and strategy for retirement of the facility.
GPS is an unincorporated joint venture of which Rio Tinto has a 42.125% stake.
Notification was submitted to AEMO by CS Energy at the recommendation of the Joint Venture in CS Energy’s capacity as the nominated generator for GPS in the National Energy Market. CS Energy trades the output of GPS in excess of the Boyne Smelter requirements.
