Stanwell secures exclusivity on 1,860 MW hybrid energy project in Gladstone
Stanwell has secured an exclusive agreement with Quinbrook for the development of the Gladstone SDA Energy Hub, combining gas turbines and long-duration battery storage to support Queensland’s electricity grid stability.
| Sectors | Gas, Energy Storage, Batteries, Natural Gas |
|---|---|
| Themes | Investments & Transactions, Commercial Partnerships |
State-owned utility Stanwell Corporation has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with asset manager Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners, granting it exclusive rights to develop the Gladstone State Development Area (GSDA) Energy Hub in Queensland. The project combines 1,860 megawatts (MW) of capacity from open-cycle gas turbines, an eight-hour Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), and synchronous condensers to enhance grid reliability.
A first-of-its-kind technical configuration in the Australian market
The GSDA Energy Hub marks the first large-scale integration of flexible gas turbines, long-duration batteries, and grid stabilisation equipment in the Australian National Electricity Market. The infrastructure will be delivered in phases by Quinbrook and its development affiliate Private Energy Partners, with 1,080 MW of gas turbines and 780 MW of BESS.
The hub is designed to deliver dispatchable power during periods of high market demand, unexpected system outages, or low renewable generation. Located in the industrial region of Gladstone, the project is strategically positioned to support Queensland’s energy network.
Strengthened partnership between Stanwell and Quinbrook
This agreement builds on an existing collaboration between Stanwell and Quinbrook, following a prior Memorandum of Understanding to demonstrate the EnerQB eight-hour storage system at the Stanwell Power Station. That pilot is seen as a foundational component of the broader GSDA Energy Hub.
Stanwell Corporation views the project as critical to meeting Queensland’s rising electricity demand and supporting large-scale industrial activity. The exclusivity allows Stanwell to negotiate future commercial terms with Quinbrook regarding the hub’s development.
Long-term energy investment potential
Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners Chief Executive Officer Brian Restall said Queensland remains an attractive state for energy investment, particularly for high-technology developments. He highlighted the complementary role of long-duration backup and gas turbines in a changing market environment.
The GSDA Energy Hub aligns with Queensland’s Energy Plan, with direct implications for grid resilience and supply to major industrial users.
