Queensland’s resources sector is set to play a pivotal role in the state’s transition to a low-emissions energy future.
The roundtable, which brought together key stakeholders from across the energy and resources sectors, focused on strategies to ensure a reliable and affordable energy supply for Queensland households and businesses as the state pursues ambitious emissions reduction targets.
Queensland Resources Council (QRC) Chief Executive Officer Janette Hewson emphasised the sector’s dual importance in both stabilising the electricity grid and supplying the critical materials needed for renewable technologies.
“Queensland’s resources sector will be crucial to providing electricity grid stability and the critical materials that underpin the energy transition,” Hewson said.
“From steelmaking coal and critical minerals which are essential to build solar panels, wind turbines and batteries, to the thermal coal and gas to keep the lights on in homes and power industry and businesses across Queensland.
“Queensland gas producers continue to play an essential role in our state’s energy system and supply to the east coast.
“This will become increasingly important as we progress through the energy transition.
“A balanced mix of resources and renewables is needed to achieve lower emissions targets and the lowest cost electricity for all Queenslanders.
“You can’t have one without the other, despite a misconception promoted by some that the energy transition means decommissioning mines and gas fields one day and activating solar and wind farms the next.”
Hewson also highlighted the necessity for new investment in the resources sector to deliver projects that support the energy transition and create new jobs.
She warned that the transition would not be without challenges, particularly the need for new mines and gas fields to ensure affordable and reliable energy for all consumers.
Two recent state government announcements were cited as evidence of the sector’s central role in the transition:
- The extension of coal-fired power stations under a new five-year Energy Roadmap.
- The progression of the CopperString transmission project, which will unlock new mining projects in the minerals-rich North West Minerals Province.
“Queensland has some of the largest coal reserves in the world and our coal industry is a vital part of the state’s economy, contributing 24 per cent of all government revenue raised in Queensland,” Hewson said.
She also reiterated the resources industry’s commitment to decarbonisation, stating: “Queensland resources companies are committed to contributing to a lower emissions future through decarbonisation targets, climate transition plans, innovative practices and responsible resource management.
“QRC will continue to work constructively with the government to support the energy transition.”
The roundtable discussion comes as the Queensland government continues to invest in renewable energy and storage projects, with a focus on maintaining reliability and affordability for consumers, while supporting job creation and economic growth across the state.
