Stakeholders and representatives alike gathered today at the North Queensland Green Energy Futures Forum to collectively shape the future of the region’s green energy sector.
Hosted by Townsville Enterprise, the forum brought together leaders and investors from diverse sectors – including industry, research, and government – to exchange ideas and insights on the evolving landscape of the industry.
Townsville Enterprise CEO Claudia Brumme-Smith emphasised the forum’s pivotal role in developing a cooperative approach to address the challenges and capitalise on opportunities in North Queensland, particularly as Townsville moves to claim its place as a leader in national energy transition.
“Hosting this Green Energy Forum for the third time is exciting, both for Townsville Enterprise as an organisation, but also for North Queensland as a region because it means we are progressing this new industry, we are securing investments, and we are starting to build,” says Claudia.
“Since the investment announcement of CopperString at last year’s Green Energy Forum by the State Government, the North Queensland project pipeline has grown to more than $14.1 billion of renewable projects, representing over 40% of the total investment pipeline value expected until 2030.
“With the North currently generating approximately 1,600 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of power annually from renewables, an output substantial enough to power 200,000 homes, the delivery of announced projects across the CopperString network will see the projected capacity increase our renewable generation by more than tenfold, thanks to the world leading solar and wind resources we have in our backyard.”
Windlab’s Chief Development Officer Nathan Blundell noted that North Queensland has a vital role to play in the transformation of Australia’s energy system.
“North Queensland is home to some of the most strategically critical renewable energy resources in the world, and North Queensland wind is an irreplaceable component in the energy mix we need to achieve our global decarbonisation commitments and net zero by 2050,” Nathan says.
“As the major port and industrial centre for the region, with strong supply and manufacturing capacity and a highly skilled industrial workforce, Townsville is uniquely positioned at the centre of the region’s renewable energy future.
“Windlab looks forward to working with communities, leaders, suppliers and contractors as we unlock our regional development pipeline, and deliver lasting, meaningful benefits we can all share.”
Special Envoy for the Great Barrier Reef Senator Nita Green says places like regional Queensland are sitting on a goldmine of renewable potential.
“With our sunny skies and boundless innovation, we’re ready to lead the charge in renewable energy manufacturing,” says Nathan.
“These projects aren’t just about creating jobs; they’re about kickstarting our economy and putting Queensland on the map as a renewable energy powerhouse.”
Image credits: Townsville Enterprise
