The Queensland Renewable Energy Council (QREC) has unveiled a new strategy to accelerate renewable energy projects in Queensland.
The new strategy shows more than 140GW of renewable energy projects proposed in Queensland’s broader pipeline, including almost 8GW of renewable generation and storage projects financially committed or already under construction—valued at more than $10.7 billion.
At full tilt, this level of energy infrastructure investment could replace the state’s ageing coal-fired power, support its resources and agriculture sectors decarbonise, sustain local businesses and homes electrifying as well as support new high-energy industries to Queensland.
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QREC CEO Katie-Anne Mulder said the Queensland Renewables Growth and Investment Strategy provides the clarity and stability required to give investors confidence while ensuring communities remain at the centre of the energy transformation.
“Queenslanders have known the importance of renewable energy for decades; whether it has been the Southern Cross windmills to pump water on farms, bagasse from our sugar mills, or solar panels on the roofs of more than half of Queensland homes,” she said.
“On a larger scale, renewable energy offers much more for Queensland. Already, almost 30% of Queensland energy is generated from renewable energy.
“Queensland has the strongest renewable pipeline in Australia. But to turn projects into jobs, infrastructure and investment, we need clear, market-led strategies that give certainty to industry, communities, and investors.”
Mulder said the strategy was designed to complement the Queensland Government’s work to develop its Energy Roadmap—expected to be released by the end of this year.
“This strategy is the rubber hitting the Roadmap,” she said.
“Queensland’s renewable energy story is not new. But the new chapters are to be written now. We must act now. This Strategy provides a balanced plan that supports investment certainty, empowers regional communities, and ensures a reliable energy system for generations to come.”
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Mulder said the strategy would help secure the private capital Queensland needs, underpinned by three key pillars:
- refocusing the energy system for long-term reliability and affordability
- partnering with regional Queensland for a coordinated, value-driven transition, and
- creating a world-class development framework.
Fifteen practical recommendations set out a roadmap for Queensland to deliver affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy while ensuring regional communities share in the benefits.
Read the full strategy here.
