The Barron Gorge hydro power station is Australia's first underground power station and the most northern generation site on Queensland's electricity grid.

"It's an historic hydro power station and it's been delivering clean, green power since the 1960's" Mr Wettenhall said.

"This upgrade looks beyond the horizon by planning for cleaner, greener energy for the future generations in the far north.

The government owned corporation Stanwell is spending $9 million to rewind two generator units at Barron Gorge Hydro to make the station more reliable and efficient.

The upgrade work started last year and is currently in commissioning stage and should be completed this month.
Once completed, the upgrade is expected to increase generator capacity by up to 10 per cent.
Barron Gorge Hydro produces approximately 260,000 tonnes less of greenhouse gases a year compared to a coal-fired power station.

Barron Gorge is a 60 MW power station and is one of only a few power generation facilities in Queensland able to supply green power.

"The power station was only given a life expectancy of around 40 years, so I am delighted the Bligh government has extended the life of Barron Gorge Hyrdo until 2055."

"$28 milliion was set aside for a mid-life refit three years ago. It was the largest project undertaken at the power station since it was built."

Work at the site includes: a pre-overhaul testing program; generator disassembly; stripping and disposal of old winding; conductor generator bearing condition assessment and testing; install new winding into the core with final testing and painting; install online condition monitoring; commission generator and final testing.

"This is about delivering clean, green power to the people of the far north," Mr Wettenhall said.

ENDS