Queensland's largest and oldest coal-fired power station could close six years earlier than expected.

Mining giant Rio Tinto made the made the announcement today, saying that CS Energy had told the Australian Energy Market Operator that Gladstone Power Station could potentially close in March 2029.

"The notification ensures compliance with the National Electricity Rules to provide notice of closure of electricity generators 3.5 years in advance. The notice period can be extended at any time," Rio Tinto said in a release.

"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."

However, there are no plans to scale down the plant's power output before March 2029

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