The renewable energy sector workforce will get a boost following a Queensland Government decision to provide a renewable energy training facility at Pinkenba for the electrical industry.
“As planning minister, I have approved a Ministerial Infrastructure Designation for the Pinkenba Renewable Energy Training Facility,” deputy premier Steven Miles says.
“The specialised training facility will provide pre-trade, apprenticeship and post trade courses for up to 300 students at a time and support 40 teaching positions”, mostly geared towards electrical work vital for EVs, solar, wind energy, hydrogen and other renewables.
Miles says the Ministerial Infrastructure Designation process will enable Electro Group to start construction and welcome students as soon as possible.
Energy, renewables and hydrogen minister Mick de Brenni says the Palaszczuk Government is investing $17 million towards the $23 million facility, adding electrical, solar and telecommunications training will be offered to hundreds of Queenslanders annually.
“This facility will ensure our electrical industry is up to the challenge as new renewable energy technology opens up more opportunities for global investors in Queensland,” Electro Group chief executive Donna Pickford says, with construction set to start in September 2021.
“Our facility, will provide electrical workers with classroom learning and out in the field training, which will feature a 17m high wind turbine, a 20m high climbing tower, a 30m telecommunications tower and a 54kW single axis tracking solar system,” Pickford says.
“Being able to provide both current and future electrical workers with this hands-on experience will mean they’ll be fully equipped to take on the jobs of tomorrow.
The centre’s first students are expected in mid-2022.
