Tarong Coal Power Plant | 1,400 MW Facility in Queensland, Australia

Tarong is a coal-fired power station located in the South Burnett region of Queensland, Australia. With a capacity of 1,400 MW, it is one of the larger coal plants in the state, providing baseload power to the National Electricity Market (NEM). The facility is owned and operated by Stanwell Corporation Ltd, a state-owned generator. The plant uses subcritical boiler technology, typical of older coal stations in Australia. It operates under the Australian National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting (NGER) scheme and is subject to emissions standards under the National Environment Protection Council (NEPC) regulations. Coal is sourced from nearby mines, including the Meandu Mine, via a dedicated conveyor system. Tarong plays a significant role in Queensland's energy grid, supplying power to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. Its location in a rural area reduces direct population exposure, but the plant's carbon footprint and water usage are notable environmental considerations. The facility has been operational since the 1980s and remains a key asset in the state's generation portfolio.

As a coal-fired plant, Tarong emits CO2, SOx, NOx, and particulate matter. Its location in a rural area with low population density reduces local health impacts, but the plant contributes to Australia's greenhouse gas emissions. Water is used for cooling, sourced from nearby water bodies. The facility is subject to Australian emissions regulations and may face future carbon constraints under evolving climate policy.