Annastacia Palaszczuk

The Queensland government released its Climate Action Plan 2030 online yesterday, an apparent roadmap for the Sunshine State to meet its renewable 2030 and 2050 targets while creating jobs and helping the economy recover from the impact of Covid-19. But is the Action Plan merely a plan to take action?

Korea Zinc Company Ltd., parent company of Townsville-based Sun Metals, has entered into a $17 million financing agreement with the 1,100km CopperString 2.0 transmission line project across North Queensland. The project, which received an $11 million boost from the Federal Government recently, would open up enormous tracts of land for the development of renewable projects and minerals.

In an Australian first, newly re-elected Premier of Queensland Annastacia Palaszczuk has established a ministry for hydrogen in her new government. The move comes amidst a raft of recent hydrogen related policies throughout Australia and reinforces the nation’s determination to lead the global race for a hydrogen economy.

A “majority” stake of the 300 MW shovel-ready Rodds Bay Solar Farm in Queensland has been purchased by UK investment firm United Green. The announcement comes as state government energy ministers come together to reinforce their renewable energy ambitions in this time of economic recovery, despite “the difficulty” of the federal policy vacuum.

The Queensland Government’s “Unite and Recover” phase of its response to the economic impact of Covid-19 includes $17 million in funding for a Renewable Energy Training Facility in Brisbane. The Sunshine State seems to be realising its solar future.

Between 460 and 480 MWp in size, Western Downs will become the largest solar farm in Australia, bringing significant regional economic benefits to South West Queensland.