Genex Power appoints Arup for Bulli Creek solar project

Genex Power has enlisted the services of design firm Arup as the “owner’s engineer” for the initial phase of the proposed Bulli Creek solar and battery storage project in southern Queensland, with a total capacity of 2 gigawatts.

The collaboration with Arup specifically pertains to the 775MW Stage 1 of the project, a venture that Genex remains committed to despite uncertainties surrounding its primary off-taker, the substantial Gibson Island green hydrogen project backed by Fortescue Metals, led by Andrew Forrest.

The partnership between Genex and Fortescue, announced in late 2023, has faced delays in final approval due to Fortescue’s reservations about fully endorsing the Gibson Island initiative, citing concerns over energy costs and other factors.

Nevertheless, Genex remains optimistic about the Bulli Creek project, which will kick off with 775MW of solar capacity, followed by a 400MW/1,600MWh battery storage component. Subsequent phases will incorporate additional solar and storage elements to maximise the project’s full 2GW potential.

The project site, located 45 kilometres from Milmerran, is in close proximity to Powerlink’s 330kV Bulli Creek substation, offering ample grid connection capabilities and serving as a key point for the Queensland-NSW Interconnector.

The Role of an Owner’s Engineer

An Owner’s Engineer, a relatively novel position, acts as an independent expert advocate for the project owner, providing essential technical capabilities and expertise to facilitate the design and completion of the project.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Genex in developing critical infrastructure to support Australia’s energy transition,” stated Ian Hustwick, Arup’s project director.

Hustwick added, “Arup’s energy division is dedicated to advancing and expanding the technological systems of the future, contributing to accelerated decarbonisation. The Bulli Creek Solar Project exemplifies our dedication to establishing energy supply chains for a net-zero world.”

This announcement follows Genex Power’s selection of PCL Contractors as the preferred contractor for the initial 775MW stage, a decision made approximately four months ago.

Joshua S. Hill, a seasoned journalist based in Melbourne, has been covering topics such as climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles for more than 15 years. His work on electric vehicles and clean energy can be found in publications like Renew Economy and The Driven, where he has been a prominent contributor since 2012. Despite his extensive coverage of electric vehicles, Hill’s preferred mode of transport remains his own two feet.