Solar-powered abattoir for Gladstone

Construction is set to start in May next year on a solar-powered abattoir in Gladstone. This will create 308 jobs during the construction phase and 335 jobs after the abattoir becomes operational in 2021.

Asia Pacific Agri-Corp’s $308 million project, the first of its kind in Australia, will be capable of processing 2400 head of cattle per day.

The plant will include 95 hectares of solar panels, which will be capable of generating 78 MW of electricity or almost one-third of the site’s total electricity needs. An on-site 33 MW hydrogen plant will service the abattoir’s boiler and further increase energy efficiency.

Asia Pacific Agri-corp intends to adopt paddock-to-market supply chain arrangements, sourcing cattle directly from farmers and tracing product to the market. The high-tech facility will include the latest in meat processing technologies including robotics.

Member for Gladstone Glenn Butcher said the facility will make its way through the Port of Gladstone to international markets enhancing Gladstone’s reputation as a place to do business.

Queensland’s independent Coordinator-General has placed 29 strict conditions on the project ensuring adverse emissions, such as noise, dust and odour, will not affect residents.

Asia Pacific Agri-Corp will next undertake detailed design prior to starting construction.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/Savo Ilic