As Queensland’s newly sworn-in LNP government settles into power, conservation groups are questioning the state’s commitment to renewable energy after the confirmation that the ambitious 5GW Pioneer Burdekin pumped hydro scheme will be scrapped. The move has sparked concerns about the transparency and feasibility of the government’s alternative energy plans, with calls for swift action to ensure Queensland stays on track to meet its renewable energy targets.
LNP Axes “World’s Largest” Hydro Project
Premier David Crisafulli wasted no time confirming that his government would follow through on its election promise to end planning for the Pioneer Burdekin project, which aimed to construct a massive energy storage dam in central Queensland. The LNP had previously criticized the scheme as “not feasible” and a “hoax,” instead pledging to investigate opportunities for smaller, more manageable pumped hydro projects.
While the government remains supportive of the 2GW Borumba pumped hydro project, which is already in the early works phase, the fate of the properties acquired for Pioneer Burdekin remains uncertain. Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie stated, “We are working through the process [with landholders] … but it’s going to be what the people want.”
Calls for Transparency and Swift Action
The Queensland Conservation Council (QCC) is urging the Crisafulli government to release details of its alternative energy plans within the first 100 days of taking office. As the state aims to source 50% of its electricity from renewables by 2030, 70% by 2032, and 80% by 2035, long-duration storage projects like pumped hydro are considered critical to meeting these targets.
“It’s really important that the new state government is upfront about which pumped hydro projects they’re considering. Queenslanders want to know they’re serious about getting on with the energy transition, but also, critically, we need to be able to assess the potential environmental impacts of their plans.”
– Dave Copeman, Director of the Queensland Conservation Council
The QCC had previously sought more transparency from the Labor government about its choice of the Pioneer Burdekin site, with Copeman noting that the debate had become political rather than data-driven. While supporting the energy transition, the council emphasizes the importance of well-planned development to minimize cumulative environmental impacts and costs.
Balancing Risk and Reward in Energy Storage
Experts have weighed in on the potential advantages and drawbacks of the LNP’s approach to pumped hydro. Dr Dylan McConnell, an energy systems analyst at the University of New South Wales, suggested that pursuing several smaller projects could help “diversify the risk” of delays and cost overruns associated with mega projects like Pioneer Burdekin.
However, McConnell also noted that the rapidly falling cost of battery storage could make it a more cost-effective option by the time pumped hydro projects are built. This highlights the need for the government to carefully consider the long-term viability and competitiveness of its chosen energy storage solutions.
The Road Ahead for Queensland’s Energy Transition
As Queensland navigates the complex landscape of renewable energy development, the new LNP government faces the challenge of balancing environmental concerns, economic feasibility, and the urgent need to decarbonize the state’s electricity sector. With conservation groups and the public calling for transparency and decisive action, the coming months will be critical in shaping Queensland’s energy future.
Premier Crisafulli has indicated that his government may seek to partner with proponents of smaller pumped hydro projects already in the pipeline, aiming to bring them online sooner than Pioneer Burdekin would have been. However, the details of these plans remain unclear, and the QCC is adamant that Queenslanders deserve to know the specifics of the government’s intentions.
As the state moves forward, it will be essential for the government to engage in open and transparent dialogue with stakeholders, ensuring that the energy transition is not only swift but also environmentally sustainable and socially responsible. Only by working together can Queensland hope to achieve its ambitious renewable energy targets and secure a clean, reliable, and affordable energy future for all.
