Queensland Treasurer and Energy Minister David Janetzki has announced the development of a five-year energy roadmap aimed at delivering affordable, reliable and sustainable energy supply to Queenslanders.
Speaking at the Queensland Energy Club, Minister Janetzki outlined the Government’s pragmatic approach to Queensland’s energy future.
“We’re taking an approach based on economics and engineering, not ideology,” Minister Janetzki said.
“Our five-year plan must ease pressure on our balance sheet, de-risk our energy future, and significantly boost generation capacity. It will involve the private sector and must work for our communities.”
The roadmap, which will be released by the end of the year, will be informed by expert advice from the re-established Queensland Productivity Commission. It will also outline the state’s strategy for lowering emissions.
The Treasurer affirmed the Government’s support for using gas as a transitional energy source while the state’s energy system transitions toward renewables. He confirmed that $134 million has already been approved for the Brigalow Gas Peaker Project at Kogan Creek.
The Productivity Commission will also review the potential extension of Queensland’s coal-fired power stations and evaluate the state’s legislated emissions reduction and renewable energy targets.
However, the announcement has prompted concern among environmental stakeholders.
Environmental Advocacy in Central Queensland Director, Dr Coral Rowston welcomed the commitment to deliver a roadmap but questioned the transparency of the process.
“It’s positive that we’ll finally see a plan for Queensland’s energy future by the end of the year, but it remains unclear whether the community will be invited to have their say before it is finalised,” said Dr Rowston.
“Our communities want cheaper power, but not at the expense of the environment or the industries and lifestyles we rely on.”
Dr Rowston also raised concerns about the potential rollback of the Government’s climate commitments.
“This Government was elected just six months ago on a platform that included support for the bipartisan target of cutting Queensland’s emissions by 75% by 2035. Backing away from this would be deeply disappointing.”
She warned against increased investment in fossil fuels at the expense of renewable energy progress.
“Queenslanders have already faced devastating impacts from extreme weather events, including Cyclone Alfred and record floods across the state. These events are becoming more frequent and more severe.
“If we continue business as usual, relying on coal and gas, the costs — both financial and environmental — will only escalate.
“Extending the life of aging coal plants is costly and short-sighted. Maintaining outdated infrastructure will be a heavy burden on the state budget. Callide Power station is a great example of the continuing issues and associated repair and maintenance costs.”
Dr Rowston is calling for leadership that prioritises long-term climate resilience and fiscal responsibility:
“Queensland pays more for climate-related disasters than any other state. Ignoring the root cause is not just bad environmental policy — it’s poor financial management.”
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