Powerlink, the company that operates Queensland’s primary electricity network, has accelerated its transformation following the release of the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan. This plan aims to achieve 70% renewable energy usage by 2032. As a government-owned service provider, Powerlink plays a crucial role in the region’s energy industry transformation, managing a vast transmission network that serves millions of Queenslanders and businesses. The company is adapting to connect renewable power sources like wind and solar farms to its network and transition towards a cleaner and more cost-effective energy supply.
Digitalization is key to Powerlink’s transformation, with a strong focus on creating a SuperGrid to integrate all aspects of the electricity system. This SuperGrid is crucial in achieving the renewable energy targets set out by the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan, with goals of 50% renewable energy by 2030, 70% by 2032, and 80% by 2035. By working closely with partners in government, the market, and communities, Powerlink is leveraging digital technologies to exchange data and facilitate the development of new energy infrastructure.
The company’s financial systems are also undergoing a modernization process, with a shift towards cloud-based solutions such as SAP S4/HANA. This transition enables Powerlink to make data-driven decisions in the evolving energy market and manage the increasing load of non-regulated work from renewable energy sources. By integrating data from various sources onto a single cloud platform, Powerlink gains efficiency improvements and accurate spend allocations, improving overall financial management.
Queensland’s status as a clean energy leader has attracted numerous renewable energy projects to the region, including solar, wind, battery, and hydrogen initiatives. The government has designated specific areas as renewable energy zones to encourage investment in renewables, further propelling the clean energy transition. Powerlink’s role as the power transmission network positions them at the forefront of this energy transformation, with significant company growth and a focus on providing a meaningful employee experience through platforms like SAP SuccessFactors.
As Powerlink expands its operations into areas with limited existing infrastructure, the company will leverage connected data to ensure safe and sustainable expansion. Digitalization will play a crucial role in answering questions related to environmental impact, property ownership, and wildlife preservation, taking sustainable business practices to a new level. Overall, Powerlink’s commitment to digital transformation and renewable energy integration aligns with Queensland’s ambitious clean energy goals, positioning the company as a key player in the region’s energy transition.
