Proposals are now open for the Queensland Government’s $200 million North West Energy Fund, a key initiative of the state’s Energy Roadmap.
The fund will support local energy solutions in and around Mount Isa, Cloncurry, Julia Creek, and Richmond to boost reliability and help drive down long-term power costs.
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Treasurer and Minister for Energy David Janetzki said the fund builds on the government’s commitment to deliver CopperString from Townsville to Mount Isa.
“Our word matters and when we said we’re saving CopperString we meant it,” Treasurer Janetzki said.
“This fund enables us to pass on the benefits of CopperString to communities west of Hughenden while advancing the accelerated delivery of the project’s Eastern Link.”
Treasurer Janetzki said the North West Energy Fund backed practical projects to deliver more affordable and reliable power while supporting the industries and communities that drive our economy.
“Strong feedback was received during market sounding and new renewable energy generation to service the Dugald River Mine is already being considered, alongside other proposals,” he said.
“To progress economic development in the North West, we need investment in flexible solutions that reduce the cost of energy to make industry more competitive.
“The North West Minerals Province is one of the richest mineral producing regions in the world, potentially holding $700 billion in critical minerals. Further unlocking opportunities will help deliver even more benefit for Queensland’s economy.”
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The North West Energy Fund is being delivered by Queensland Investment Corporation (QIC), and investment guidelines are available here.
