Overview
Mackay is a 30 MW gas power plant in Queensland, Australia, owned by Stanwell Corporation Ltd. It provides electricity to the local grid.
Mackay is a gas-fired power plant located in Queensland, Australia, with a capacity of 30 MW. Owned by Stanwell Corporation Ltd, the facility is operational and contributes to the region's electricity supply. As a gas power plant, it represents a relatively flexible and lower-emission fossil fuel option compared to coal. The plant operates under Australia's National Electricity Market (NEM) regulations, which include emissions standards and renewable energy targets. Gas plants like Mackay often serve as peaking or intermediate load facilities, supporting grid stability. The 30 MW capacity places it in the small-scale category for gas power generation. Mackay's location in Queensland's industrial and agricultural region means it supports local energy needs. Its gas fuel source results in lower CO2, SOx, and NOx emissions per MWh compared to coal, aligning with Australia's transition towards cleaner energy. The plant's operational status ensures continued grid support.
Environmental context
The Mackay gas power plant, with a 30 MW capacity, has a relatively low environmental footprint compared to coal-fired plants. Gas combustion produces fewer CO2 emissions per unit of electricity and minimal SOx and NOx. Located in Queensland, the plant operates in a region with growing renewable energy integration. Its proximity to populated areas is typical for small-scale gas facilities, which often serve local grids and can be sited near demand centers.
Frequently asked questions
The Mackay gas power plant is located in Queensland, Australia, near the city of Mackay.
The Mackay power plant has a capacity of 30 megawatts (MW), making it a small-scale gas-fired facility.
The Mackay gas power plant is owned by Stanwell Corporation Ltd, a Queensland government-owned energy company.
Gas power plants in Australia operate under the National Electricity Market (NEM) rules, which include emissions standards, grid connection requirements, and renewable energy certificate obligations.
Gas power generation produces about half the CO2 emissions of coal per unit of electricity, along with significantly lower SOx and NOx emissions, making it a cleaner fossil fuel option.