Rio Tinto may retire Gladstone coal-fired power station early

Queensland’s oldest and largest coal-fired power station — the Gladstone Power Station (GPS) — could retire in 2029, six years earlier than expected.

Rio Tinto (ASX: RIO) says no final decision has been made to retire GPS, which has operated since 1976, and there is potential to extend the life of the power station should market and other factors allow.

The miner says there is no immediate impact on operations and existing power supply contracts, including to Boyne Smelters, will remain in place until their scheduled expiry in March 2029.

The GPS JV participants recognise the contribution of the power station to the Gladstone community and are committed to work with the operator NRG Gladstone Operating Services to ensure transparent and timely engagement with employees, contractors and suppliers throughout this process.

Between now and March 2029, the JV participants will engage with stakeholders on the energy market and on options for the future use of the site, which will inform the timeline and strategy for retirement of the facility.

Following the announcement, the Queensland Conservation Council urged the Queensland Government to plan for the closure of the state-owned coal power stations.

Queensland Conservation Council director Dave Copeman comments on the potential early closure.

“We’re calling on the [Queensland] Government to deliver an energy plan on October 10 that provides certainty for communities and industry by mapping out the timely closure of the state’s coal clunkers,” he said.

“If Rio Tinto can do it, so can they.”