TSBE Renewables Roundup set to showcase future of Western Downs energy projects

Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise will host a two-day conference in the Western Downs to explore the opportunities ahead for businesses looking to capitalise on the renewable energy boom. 

The Western Downs is undoubtedly the Energy Capital of Queensland, with 10 solar projects approved and pending construction, as well as coal, gas, ethanol and wind projects.

TSBE executive chairman Shane Charles said the activity in the renewables sector would provide significant construction opportunities for local companies in the coming years. 

“Companies in our region can provide construction across a range of areas, and are set to benefit from the projects. We are perfectly positioned to compete for work,” Mr Charles said.

“These developments are very new to this region, which means the major contractors for the projects will be new to most of our businesses.”

Mr Charles said delegates attending the roadshow would be given an insight into the opportunities available, as well as meeting some of the proponents.

“TSBE’s role is to provide supply-chain specific information to our members, and also at our public events, featuring solar and wind industry speakers,” he said.

As well as a full day conference, delegates will tour the APA Group Darling Downs Solar Farm or Dalby bio-refinery on day two of the program.

Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Paul McVeigh said in the past two years the council had blazed a trail in the renewable energy sector.

“We’ve been creating investment opportunities that will strengthen our economy and provide employment opportunities within our communities,” Cr McVeigh said.

"We look forward to the 2017 Renewable Energy Roundup as an opportunity to share the success of our region's planning scheme as well as to connect with those at the forefront of the renewable energy boom our region has embraced."

"It is an exciting time for the Western Downs as we establish ourselves as the Energy Capital of Australia, and the job opportunities and economic benefits this has for the wider region is significant."

Canadian Solar Senior Project Manager - Energy Group Jochen Rasmussen said he encouraged renewable energy enthusiasts, project developers, investors, lenders, landowners, councils, energy utility companies, energy distributors and service providers to join the event.

The Western Downs Regional Council has a $2.72 billion Gross Regional Product. Find out more about WDRC here.

Key speakers include: 

• Senior Project Manager, Energy Group, Canadian Solar Jochen Rasmussen
• Group Executive, Networks and Power, APA Group Sam Pearce
• Manager Future Networks, Energy Queensland Glenn Springall
• EGM Strategy and Business Development, Powerlink Queensland Kevin Kehl
• Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Paul McVeigh, CEO Ross Musgrove and Deputy Mayor Cr Andrew Smith

The Dalby conference will feature industry experts, political leaders and innovative businesses as they share knowledge and experience on the renewables industry and what’s ahead for the region.

TSBE’s Renewables Roadshow will be in Dalby on November 9-10. Download the official program here or book here.