Energy
Generating a new future
Stationary energy (mainly electricity generation) is the greatest contributor to Queenslands greenhouse gas emissions, representing 38 per cent of total emissions in 2007. This is due to the energy intensity of the Queensland economy, the rapid growth in electricity consumption and our reliance on fossil fuels for electricity generation.
Over time, the Australian Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme will reduce emissions from the energy sector, however there are also significant low cost opportunities to reduce energy use through energy efficiency programs such as increasing the use of solar hot water and energy conservation.
Queensland has significant renewable energy resources. Geothermal, solar thermal, wind and biomass co-generation will play an important role in reducing Queenslands greenhouse gas emissions. Queensland recently launched its Renewable Energy Plan (PDF)* which aims to attract investment in renewable energy generation to Queensland under the Renewable Energy Target.
Electricity generated from natural gas produces around half the greenhouse gas emissions of electricity from conventional coal-fired generation. Gas will therefore remain a key transitional fuel source for electricity generation in Queensland while emerging renewable energy sources and carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies are being established.
Energy - generating a new future (PDF, 458K)*
Energy key initiatives fact sheets
- Conditions for a New Coal-Fired Power Generation (PDF, 121K)*
- Energy Conservation and Demand Management Program (PDF, 127K)*
- Clean Energy for Remote Communities (PDF, 124K)*
- Queensland Renewable Energy Plan (PDF, 152K)*
- Securing Queensland's Energy Future: Regulation for Electricity Demand Management (PDF, 265K)*
* Requires Adobe Reader
Last reviewed 20 December 2010
Last updated 20 August 2009