The Bill replaces the previous objective of achieving renewable energy targets with a focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions from electricity generation, providing a framework for new infrastructure that aims to balance cost, reliability, and emissions.
QREC Chief Executive Officer Katie-Anne Mulder said the legislation provides some clarity for investors and developers.
“While we don’t support the repeal of the legislated renewable energy targets, the new objective of emissions reduction ensures renewable energy remains central to Queensland’s energy future,” Ms Mulder said.
“Importantly, the Bill continues to support a transition away from coal, reinforcing the Energy Roadmap’s position of no new coal generation and giving investors a clearer picture of the State’s energy trajectory.”
The amendments also embed key elements of the Energy Roadmap, including the establishment of Regional Energy Hubs and facilitation of the North Queensland CopperString 330 kV power line, providing certainty for new generation and storage projects by helping coordinate transmission investment to support growth. The Energy System Outlook replaces the previous SuperGrid Blueprint, aligning with QREC’s Queensland Renewables Growth & Investment Strategy.
“Now is the time for stability,” Ms Mulder said.
“This legislation can give industry the certainty it needs to plan new wind, solar, and storage projects efficiently, ensuring Queensland homes and businesses have access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity.”
The Queensland Government’s Energy Roadmap released on 10 October projects up to 6.8 GW of additional wind and solar operational by 2030, with a further 4.4 GW by 2035. QREC’s Renewables Growth & Investment Strategy shows almost 8 GW of committed generation and storage projects, valued at over $10.7 billion (USD 6.9 billion), with a broader pipeline exceeding 140 GW — the largest in Australia, indicating strong investor interest.
“The Bill provides for a whole of Government vision for a low cost and low emission energy future but we also need a world-class development assessment framework to match. Industry needs timely and predictable pathways that set clear assessment timeframes and performance reporting.”
“Queenslanders should note that renewable energy and storage are central to meeting emissions objectives, supporting regional jobs, and maintaining a cost-conscious electricity system,” Ms Mulder said.
QREC encourages the Queensland Government to engage meaningfully with industry through the Parliamentary Committee process to ensure the legislation delivers its full potential and provides certainty for investors and communities alike.
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