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$450 Million Capricorn Battery Storage Project Faces Council Setback - Rockhampton, QLD
Smart summary
Rockhampton Council requests more details before major renewable energy project can proceed
A major renewable energy project planned near Rockhampton has faced a delay after Rockhampton Regional Council raised concerns about the project’s social impact assessment. The proposed Capricorn Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), valued at approximately $450 million, is designed to improve electricity reliability across Central Queensland by storing renewable energy and supporting the region’s future power needs.
The project, proposed near the Powerlink substation north of Bouldercombe, would include a large-scale battery storage facility capable of providing 300 megawatts of power for up to four hours. The development is expected to support Queensland’s transition towards cleaner energy while strengthening the stability of the electricity network.
However, council members decided that additional information was required before approving the social impact assessment. Concerns raised included possible impacts on nearby residents, local accommodation availability during construction, and details about community benefits.
The company behind the project has indicated that it remains committed to working with the council and local community. The developer said it would review the feedback and prepare further information addressing the concerns raised during the assessment process.
If approved, construction could create regional employment opportunities and bring investment into the Rockhampton area. Large infrastructure projects often provide work for local contractors, suppliers and service businesses during development and construction stages.
The battery facility is expected to operate for several decades and would play a role in supporting energy demand as Queensland increases its use of renewable energy sources. The project is part of broader efforts to modernise electricity infrastructure and prepare for future energy requirements.
Community engagement will continue as the assessment process moves forward. Further decisions from Rockhampton Regional Council will determine the next steps for the development.
EnergyProjectCouncilAssessmentBattery
A major renewable energy project planned near Rockhampton has faced a delay after Rockhampton Regional Council raised concerns about the project’s social impact assessment. The proposed Capricorn Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), valued at approximately $450 million, is designed to improve electricity reliability across Central Queensland by storing renewable energy and supporting the region’s future power needs.
The project, proposed near the Powerlink substation north of Bouldercombe, would include a large-scale battery storage facility capable of providing 300 megawatts of power for up to four hours. The development is expected to support Queensland’s transition towards cleaner energy while strengthening the stability of the electricity network.
However, council members decided that additional information was required before approving the social impact assessment. Concerns raised included possible impacts on nearby residents, local accommodation availability during construction, and details about community benefits.
The company behind the project has indicated that it remains committed to working with the council and local community. The developer said it would review the feedback and prepare further information addressing the concerns raised during the assessment process.
If approved, construction could create regional employment opportunities and bring investment into the Rockhampton area. Large infrastructure projects often provide work for local contractors, suppliers and service businesses during development and construction stages.
The battery facility is expected to operate for several decades and would play a role in supporting energy demand as Queensland increases its use of renewable energy sources. The project is part of broader efforts to modernise electricity infrastructure and prepare for future energy requirements.
Community engagement will continue as the assessment process moves forward. Further decisions from Rockhampton Regional Council will determine the next steps for the development.
