It’s not often that we hear some really good news about progress on climate change, but here is some great news: Queensland is now powered by 25% renewables!

We recently achieved this massive milestone which means that we’re on track to beat the state’s renewable energy target of 50% renewable energy by 2030.

This increase in renewable energy uptake, thanks to our large scale investment and global partnerships, has meant Queensland’s clean energy supply has increased by more than 20% in just one year, and by more than 250% in eight years.

Our renewable energy targets of 50% by 2030, 70% by 2032 and 80% by 2035 will be legislated as part of the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan.

This bold plan sees us transition away from coal to power our homes and ensure all Queenslanders have access to cleaner, reliable and affordable power for generations to come.

One of the ways we’re doing this is by building the world’s biggest pumped hydro west of Mackay — the Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro.

This massive project will supply half of our state's entire energy needs and will be part of creating Australia’s largest energy SuperGrid by transporting renewable energy from our regions to power our industries and households.

New jobs are also being created in hydrogen, renewables, manufacturing, batteries and critical minerals.

Through our plan, the equivalent of 109 million tonnes of carbon dioxide will be reduced from our electricity grid by 2035  —  which is the same as taking 28 million cars off the road. 

It will ensure we transition to a low-carbon emissions future in a planned and sustainable way that protects and strengthens our economy.

Importantly, we will keep Queensland’s energy assets in public hands and maintain 100% public ownership of deep storage, transmission, and distribution.

The Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan is the biggest investment in clean energy and emissions reduction in Australia’s history and the Palaszczuk Government is delivering it now. Find out more at https://www.epw.qld.gov.au/energyandjobsplan 

If you would like to discuss the plan further, or if you have any questions for me, please contact cooper@parliament.qld.gov.au 

Eco Forums

As many people already know, I’m passionate about our environment and making sure we protect our natural assets and our wildlife.

Every year I hold an Eco Forum in my electorate so locals can hear from interesting speakers about topical issues as well as find out more about local environmental and sustainability initiatives.

This year we had a fantastic Eco Forum at The Gap Primary School on threatened species and what we’re doing in Queensland to protect our native species.

It was also a fantastic community event featuring local retailers, suppliers and artisans offering organic and sustainable produce as well as a chance to find out more about volunteering at one of our local environment groups including bush care groups.

Please sign up to my newsletter for future updates on environmental news.

Advocating for stronger protections

I’ve been a staunch advocate for stronger protections for the Lake Eyre Basin and Channel Country. I had the privilege of visiting this area, and have seen firsthand the importance of these wetlands and how easily they are impacted by local mining activities.

The Department of Environment and Science recently called for public submissions on options for safeguarding this region. I provided a submission, urging decision-makers to protect all relevant areas of the rivers and floodplains from the expansion of the fossil fuel industry and prevent the significant and irreversible damage of new oil and gas extraction.

You can read my full submission here.