Tarong power stations
TARONG AND TARONG NORTH POWER STATIONS (TPS)
Energy type Thermal Coal-Fired
Maximum generation output Tarong: 1400 MW Tarong North: 443 MW
Date commissioned Tarong: 1984 - 1986 Tarong North: 2003
Overview
The Tarong and Tarong North power stations are co-located 45 km south-east of Kingaroy in the South Burnett region of Southern Queensland. Together, they are among the most efficient coal-fired power stations in Australia and supply around 20% of Queensland’s electricity needs. In 2024, Tarong Power Station and Meandu Mine celebrated 40 years of continuous operation.
Download the latest Tarong power stations fact sheet hereThe Tarong power stations and Meandu Mine are located on the land of the Wakka Wakka people. We pay respect to their Elders past, present and emerging, and to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as we work together for a bright energy future.
Discover more about the Wakka Wakka people here
Technical details
Tarong Power Station (TPS) consists of four 350 MW generating units. Tarong North Power Station (TNPS) is a single 443 MW advanced-cycle coal-fired unit that uses supercritical boiler technology, making it one of the most efficient fossil fuel power stations in Australia.
The supercritical design increases thermal efficiency and lowers emissions by operating at higher steam pressures and temperatures, converting more heat energy into electrical energy. Both stations are operated from a centralised control room.
Fuel and water supply
Coal is supplied via conveyor from the neighbouring Meandu Mine, which is also owned by Stanwell.
Water for both power stations is sourced from Boondooma Dam, with an annual allocation of approximately 30,000 megalitres.
Emissions controls
Emissions at the Tarong power stations are managed through a combination of low nitrogen oxide (NOx) burners, electrostatic precipitators, and efficient operating practices. Particulate emissions, including ash and dust, are controlled within regulatory limits.
In 2019, both stations were equipped with continuous emissions monitoring systems (CEMS) to improve monitoring and transparency. Tarong North’s supercritical boiler further improves efficiency and emissions performance through advanced steam cycle design.
MAINTENANCE NEWS
Planned overhauls are essential to ensuring our assets continue to deliver reliable and affordable electricity for Queensland.
Overhauls are statutory requirements, and Stanwell is legally obligated to complete them within specific timeframes. In addition to planned work, maintenance may also be carried out on an unplanned basis if inspections or monitoring detect emerging issues.
Upcoming maintenance activities at the Tarong power stations are as follows:
Tarong North Power Station
Overhaul commenced on 25 April 2025 and will run for approximately 10 weeks to June 2025
$70 million investment
Approximately 500 contractors will temporarily relocate to the South Burnett to work on the overhaul
Tarong Power Station
Overhaul of Unit 1 will run for approximately 10 weeks from September to November 2025
Investment to be confirmed
Approximately 500 contractors will temporarily relocate to the South Burnett to work on the overhaul
Exact availability of all units is notified to the Australian Electricity Market Operater (AEMO) in accordance with the National Electricity Rules. Visit www.aemo.com.au for details.
Meet Mick Joy
GENERAL MANAGER: SOUTHERN GENERATION
Mick Joy is General Manager of Southern Generation at Stanwell, based at Tarong Power Stations. He brings more than 25 years of experience in Queensland’s energy sector.
Starting his career at Tarong as a vacation student in 1997, Mick has since held a range of operational and health and safety leadership roles across multiple power stations.
Today, Mick is focused on leading his team to maintain the strong performance of Tarong Power Station, while supporting Stanwell’s broader efforts to build a diverse energy portfolio – and continuing to strengthen the station’s connection to the South Burnett community.
Meet John Carey
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT MANAGER: SOUTHERN QUEENSLAND
John Carey has been with Stanwell since 2008 and leads stakeholder engagement across Southern Queensland. He and his team work closely with neighbouring communities and local stakeholders to ensure transparent, respectful and ongoing engagement.
Contact John and the team via email:
Contact Stakeholder Engagement for Southern Queensland
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