The state government has given special status to the $1.05 billion Kidston hydro and solar project to reduce “red tape” road blocks and give the project even greater certainty.
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Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the project now had critical infrastructure status with Kidston’s 50MW first stage solar farm already under construction.
“This decision highlights our commitment to generate 50 per cent of Queensland’s electricity needs from renewable energy by 2030 and the job-generating effect that action will have,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
State Development Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said prescribed project powers and critical infrastructure status allowed Queensland’s independent Coordinator-General to employ special powers to help deliver a project and ensure timely approvals.
“This is about supporting a project that will help deliver a reliable renewable energy source and support hundreds of jobs,” Dr Lynham said.
“It will help deliver energy stability and contribute to our commitments to deliver more renewable energy over the coming years.”
Minister for Energy Mark Bailey said Kidston’s 50MW first stage was the first solar farm to begin construction under the Palaszczuk Government’s Solar 150 program.
“We’re committed to transitioning to a clean energy future responsibly which will see Queensland’s energy system powered by a mix of renewables, gas and traditional baseload generation,” Mr Bailey said.
Derek Barry
Editor of the North West Star Mount Isa since January 2016. Prior to that, an editor at several regional southern Queensland newspapers. Passionate about telling local stories. Comes with a strange accent to due an Irish accident of birth.
Editor of the North West Star Mount Isa since January 2016. Prior to that, an editor at several regional southern Queensland newspapers. Passionate about telling local stories. Comes with a strange accent to due an Irish accident of birth.
