Calls for new Government to reveal preferred hydro sites in first 100 days

In response to the new Queensland Government formally scrapping the Pioneer Burdekin pumped hydro project, the Queensland Conservation Council is calling on the LNP to release details of their favoured pumped hydro sites within the first 100 days of government.

During the election campaign, the Queensland LNP pledged to scrap the controversial Pioneer Burdekin in favour of building several smaller pumped hydro projects, but no details or costing were released.

Queensland Conservation Council Director Dave Copeman said

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.

What we have always asked for is more transparency around why the previous State Government preferred the Pioneer Burdekin project following an analysis of the possible sites in Queensland.

Transparency is vital so Queenslanders can make an informed decision. Unfortunately, the debate about Pioneer Burdekin became a political one as opposed to one based on data.

We absolutely support the energy transition because climate change is one of the biggest threats to our biodiversity and the places that Queenslanders love, but development needs to be well-planned and done right.

The worst outcome would be if the cumulative environmental impact and cost of building multiple smaller pumped hydro projects is significantly greater. We can’t know that until the LNP Government is upfront about their plans.

Banner image: © NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water. For current information go to energy.nsw.gov.au

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