UPDATE: The Crisafulli Government has just announced a comprehensive Energy Roadmap aimed at delivering affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy for Queenslanders. This urgent initiative is designed to improve existing energy assets while preparing for future demands, ensuring that energy prices decrease for households across the state.
Officials confirm that this roadmap is expected to reduce taxpayer costs by $26 billion by 2035, preventing the average Queensland household from facing an additional $1,035 in energy bills annually compared to previous plans. This announcement follows a critical assessment of the previous Labor administration’s approach, which was marked by unrealistic timeframes and significant cost overruns.
Treasurer and Minister for Energy David Janetzki emphasized that the Energy Roadmap is rooted in practical economics and engineering, rather than ideology. “Our Energy Roadmap delivers what Queenslanders need, which is affordable and reliable energy that enhances their quality of life,” he stated. Janetzki criticized the former Labor Government’s plans, declaring them “undeliverable” and detrimental to the financial well-being of Queensland families.
Key components of the Energy Roadmap include:
– A $400 million Queensland Energy Investment Fund, fostering private sector investment in new energy generation and firming projects.
– A $1.6 billion Electricity Maintenance Guarantee to enhance current energy infrastructures.
– A tender process for 400 MW of new gas-fired generation in Central Queensland.
– The construction of the Eastern Link of the CopperString transmission line in North Queensland, with the Western Link also commencing work.
The plan further outlines the establishment of Regional Energy Hubs, which are designed to lower development costs, and a new code of conduct for renewable energy developers to ensure responsible practices and community expectations.
Janetzki highlighted the importance of leveraging current coal-fired assets, stating that “Queensland’s coal-fired fleet is the youngest in the country.” He reassured the public that state-owned coal generators would continue to operate as long as they are necessary and market-supported, effectively abolishing the previous Labor Government’s decision to close coal units by 2035.
The roadmap aims to attract private capital to new energy infrastructure, thereby unlocking economic growth and maintaining Queensland’s competitive edge in a changing energy landscape.
What’s next? As this roadmap unfolds, stakeholders will closely monitor developments, particularly the response from private investors and the implementation of the new energy generation projects. The government’s proactive measures could significantly reshape Queensland’s energy sector, making it more sustainable and cost-effective for residents.
For ongoing updates and more information, visit www.treasury.qld.gov.au/energy-roadmap. Share this urgent news to keep your community informed about the future of energy in Queensland!
