Queensland, a state in Australia, has set an ambitious goal of achieving a 75 percent reduction in emissions by 2035. The government has also passed legislation to ensure that 80 percent of the state’s energy grid comes from renewable sources by the same year. These targets were locked in through the Clean Economy Jobs Act 2024 and Energy (Renewable Transformation and Jobs) Act 2024, which were passed on April 18.
The government’s move to prioritize emissions reductions and renewable energy generation has been met with support from the Liberal-National Party parliamentarians. However, they did not support legislating the targets. The legislation also includes a target of 50 percent renewable energy by 2030, 70 percent by 2032, and 80 percent by 2035.
The opposition has raised concerns about the potential increase in electricity bill costs for average families. Shadow Environment Minister Sam O’Connor acknowledged the economic benefits of transitioning to a cleaner economy but also emphasized the importance of protecting the environment and biodiversity. The opposition supports the emissions reduction targets but is skeptical about legislating them without a credible pathway to achieve them.
The passage of this legislation is seen as a historic day in the Queensland parliament. Premier Steven Miles believes that this move is necessary to secure the economic, social, and environmental prosperity of the state. The government aims to create 100,000 new jobs through its energy and jobs plan. Their vision is to produce cheap, clean, reliable, and renewable energy for Queenslanders and build the necessary infrastructure to power industries in key regions.
The Australian Conservation Foundation has welcomed the passage of this legislation as it significantly lifts climate ambition and action in Australia’s most polluting state. However, they have expressed concerns about the uncertainty surrounding renewable energy targets ahead of an election. They congratulate the government and the opposition leader for supporting the emissions reduction target but are frustrated by the decision to vote against the bill that outlines the pathway to achieving these targets.
Overall, Queensland’s commitment to reducing emissions and increasing renewable energy generation is a significant step towards combating climate change. The government’s ambitious targets and focus on job creation in the clean energy sector demonstrate their dedication to securing a sustainable future for the state. However, concerns about potential increases in electricity bills and the need for a credible pathway to achieve these targets remain important considerations.
