Queensland's Renewable Energy Transition Faces Setbacks Amid Policy Changes
Queensland’s renewable energy ‘whiplash’: how the shift from coal stalled in Australia’s most polluting state
The Guardian
Image: The Guardian
Queensland, Australia's highest-emitting state, is experiencing a slowdown in its renewable energy transition following the election of the Liberal National Party in 2024. New policies favoring coal and halting renewable projects have led to a sharp decline in investments, raising concerns about the state's ability to meet its climate targets.
- 01Queensland's renewable energy investments plummeted from 3,202 megawatts in 2024 to 510 megawatts in 2025.
- 02The Liberal National Party's new energy policies extend the operation of coal plants to 2046, delaying decarbonization efforts.
- 03Over 100 renewable projects are currently backlogged under federal environmental assessments.
- 04Queensland's emissions have officially dropped by 34% since 2005, but actual emissions increased when excluding land use changes.
- 05The state risks losing billions in investment to other regions due to unstable policy environments.
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Queensland's ambitious transition from coal-fired power has hit significant roadblocks following the election of the Liberal National Party (LNP) in 2024. The LNP's policies have reversed previous commitments to renewable energy, extending the operation of state-owned coal plants until 2046 and halting numerous renewable projects. This shift has caused investments to plummet from 3,202 megawatts across 14 projects in 2024 to only 510 megawatts in 2025. The Queensland Renewable Energy Council's chief executive, Katie-Anne Mulder, noted the 'whiplash' effect of these changes, which have created a chaotic investment climate. Additionally, over 100 renewable energy projects are currently stuck in federal environmental assessments, further delaying progress. Despite a reported 34% reduction in emissions since 2005, actual emissions have increased when accounting for land use changes. Experts warn that Queensland's approach risks losing out on significant investments, as capital tends to flow to regions with stable policy environments. The state's future in renewable energy hangs in the balance as it navigates these challenges.
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The shift in energy policy could lead to job losses and reduced investment in Queensland's renewable energy sector, affecting local economies and the environment.
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