Construction has begun to connect the Kaban Green Power Hub to the electricity grid.
The work is creating 250 jobs.

De Brenni said Neoen's $373 million investment in the Kaban Green Power Hub was the first of many renewable projects within the Northern Queensland Renewable Energy Zone, which added an additional 500 megawatts of capacity for solar and wind.

"Investment in renewables delivers cheaper and cleaner energy, which are fundamental to creating more Queensland jobs and are a key component of Queensland's plan for economic recovery," he said.

"The work program will include building the Tumoulin switching station near Ravenshoe, almost 1000 metres above sea level, making it the highest situated infrastructure of its type in the state.

"The project will help harness our abundant wind resources and transport Kaban wind farm's 157MW output across North Queensland.

"It builds on our $40 million investment announced by the premier [Annastacia Palaszczuk] in May to upgrade the transmission line between Cairns and Townsville from 132 kilovolts to 275kV.

"This project is indicative of the international investment pipeline that is supported by our clear commitment to reaching 50% renewable energy by 2030.

"But most importantly, it is the next step in a $700 million program of upgrades to the North Queensland network that Powerlink will carry out over the next five years.

"Upgrades that will open Far North Queensland to new investment and enable additional capacity for solar and wind in the Northern Queensland Renewable Energy Zone.

"Having a diverse energy mix means more reliable power, ensuring that our state can continue to expand its manufacturing base and deliver more secure jobs for Queenslanders."

Queensland treasurer Cameron Dick said projects such as Kaban would help Queensland maintain and strengthen its role as the energy powerhouse of the National Electricity Market.