GE Vernova’s Gas Power business has secured a significant order from CS Energy, a Queensland Government-owned energy company.
The order includes 12 LM2500XPRESS aeroderivative gas turbines destined for the new Brigalow Peaking Power Plant in the Western Downs Region, marking a crucial step in Queensland’s ambitious energy transformation outlined in the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan.
The Brigalow Peaking Power Plant, set to provide up to 400 megawatts (MW) of reliable energy supply, is designed for grid stability and flexibility. With a unique capability to operate on 35 percent green hydrogen initially, the plant has a clear pathway to achieve 100 percent hydrogen utilization over the coming decade. This aligns seamlessly with Queensland’s commitment to the energy transition, emphasizing the importance of moving away from fossil fuels to embrace locally produced green hydrogen.
Queensland Minister for Energy and Clean Economy Jobs, Mick de Brenni, expressed enthusiasm about the project’s potential impact, stating, “The Brigalow Peaking Power Plant demonstrates the opportunity for real action on climate change, moving away from fossil fuels to green hydrogen produced here in Queensland from our abundant sun, wind, and water.”
The plant’s fast-start capability is a notable feature, requiring just five minutes to transition from a cold start to full output. Expected to commence operations in 2026, the Brigalow Peaking Power Plant aims to cater to the electricity needs of over 150,000 Queensland homes during peak demand periods.
This venture is a significant endorsement of green hydrogen’s potential, not just as an energy source but as a catalyst for economic growth and job creation. Minister de Brenni highlighted the economic prospects, stating, “We know that green hydrogen has the potential to deliver 10,000 jobs and boost the economy by $33 billion by 2040.”
The plant will be situated at CS Energy’s Kogan Clean Energy Hub, an under-development site that already houses the Kogan Renewable Hydrogen Demonstration Plant. Green hydrogen, sourced initially from this demonstration plant, will play a pivotal role in the initial operations of the Brigalow Peaking Power Plant.
CS Energy’s CEO Darren Busine emphasized the importance of creating clean energy hubs and supporting the energy transition. “Brigalow Peaking Power Plant can provide the ability for multiple start/stop cycles per day and the ability to ramp up to full power output within a few minutes,” said Busine, emphasizing the project’s contribution to grid stability.
GE Vernova’s LM2500XPRESS technology, based on its proven LM2500 aeroderivative gas turbine, is at the heart of this revolutionary project. The technology offers a staggering 95 percent factory assembly into simplified modules, ensuring faster and easier site installation. The plug-and-play nature of LM2500XPRESS facilitates flexible power deployment, meeting demands efficiently.
Eric Gray, CEO of GE Vernova’s Gas Power business, highlighted the collaboration’s importance in advancing gas power technologies toward near-zero-carbon power generation. “We are proud to collaborate with CS Energy on this project, which is a major step for Queensland’s renewable energy future,” said Gray.
As Australia continues its journey toward a cleaner and more sustainable energy future, projects like the Brigalow Peaking Power Plant underscore the pivotal role of innovative technologies in achieving these ambitions. GE Vernova’s LM2500XPRESS, with its green hydrogen compatibility and rapid-start capabilities, stands as a beacon of progress in Queensland’s quest for cleaner and more resilient energy systems.
