CleanCo’s Swanbank E Power Station has delivered its highest-ever output, generating a record 385 megawatts and exceeding operational expectations for the first time in the station’s history.

Responding to grid demand, the unit briefly peaked at 387 megawatts, surpassing its technical design target and marking a major performance milestone for the publicly owned asset.

This achievement follows the safe and successful delivery of an $80 million maintenance and upgrade program, completed late last year.

CleanCo Chief Executive Officer Tom Metcalfe said the milestone was the direct result of targeted investment and the capability of CleanCo’s people.

“This record generation result shows what’s possible when we back our assets with the right maintenance, investment and operational focus,” Mr Metcalfe said.

“CleanCo has a strong track record of safely maximising the performance of our generation assets to drive affordable, reliable and sustainable energy outcomes for Queenslanders.

“Through strategic investment, skilled operation and a focus on performance, this result supports the aims of the Queensland Government’s Electricity Maintenance Guarantee, which prioritises reliable, high-performing generation to support Queenslanders and the economy.

“It highlights the critical role Swanbank E plays in our portfolio and the strength of Queensland’s publicly owned energy assets.”

CleanCo Chief Operating Officer Terry Jobling said the result demonstrated the essential role flexible generation continues to play in Queensland’s evolving energy mix.

“Gas generation continues to play a critical role in providing secure, dispatchable power that underpins grid reliability as Queensland transitions to a more renewable energy mix,” Mr Jobling said.

“What this milestone shows is that well-managed assets like Swanbank E are ready to ramp up fast and reliably, when needed.”

The upgrade included major turbine works to improve efficiency, emissions performance and operational flexibility. The program also supported regional economic activity, delivering an estimated $3–4 million boost to the Ipswich and western Brisbane economies through local procurement and services.

Swanbank E is one of Australia’s most efficient gas-fired power stations and continues to play a vital role in maintaining system reliability as the state’s energy mix evolves.

Fast facts:

• Swanbank E achieved a record output of 385MW, briefly peaking at 387MW – the highest in the station’s history.
• The $80 million upgrade was completed in late 2024, delivering performance, efficiency and emissions improvements.
• The upgrade boosted the local economy by $3–4 million through local procurement and services in Ipswich and western Brisbane.
• Operating capacity is influenced by environmental conditions such as ambient temperature, meaning maximum output may vary throughout the year.
• The result supports the Queensland Government’s Electricity Maintenance Guarantee, which prioritises reliable, high-performing public generation.