One of the few low-temperature geothermal power stations in the world is located in Birdsville, about 1,600km west of Brisbane, on the edge of the Simpson Desert.
The energy comes from the hot water taken from the Great Artesian Basin at a depth of 1,230 metres. This hot bore water provides a ‘free’ energy resource, which would otherwise be wasted when water is cooled before use.
Geothermal power provides approximately 30 percent^ of the annual electricity needs of Birdsville. Using the geothermal power station reduces:
- diesel consumption by about 130,000 litres per year*
- 390 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions#
A major advantage of geothermal power stations over other renewable sources is that power output can be maintained continuously over an extended period of time, providing maximum energy production and fuel savings for each kilowatt of generating capacity.
In 2000/2001 modifications to the plant were undertaken by Ergon Energy with financial assistance provided by the Queensland Government through the Queensland Sustainable Energy Innovation Fund. Additional major modifications were undertaken by Ergon Energy in 2004/2005 to meet Australian safety and other standards.