Queensland Resources Council (QRC) has welcomed funding under the State Government’s Regional Economic Futures Fund (REFF) to examine the use of former mine sites for renewable energy projects.
QRC Chief Executive Officer, Janette Hewson, said the funding will be used for a feasibility study to determine how wind and solar can be used on mined land in the Bowen Basin.
“Queensland’s resources sector has an international reputation as a world leader in post mining land use and this project will build on this to understand social and community benefits from alternative land uses.
“$500,000 provided through the REFF along with a $50,000 contribution by the QRC will fund a feasibility study to evaluate the potential of renewable energy projects on mine sites in the Bowen Basin between Moranbah and Middlemount.
“Queensland’s resources sector is working with the renewable energy industry to support the study, which includes community consultation and working closely with local conservation groups and third parties like the Fitzroy Partnership for River Health.”
The feasibility study will identify the possibility of developing a demonstration site as well as review technical requirements, economic viability and potential flow on benefits.
“This is another example of Queensland’s resources sector taking progressive measures in sustainability that could enable social and economic benefits for local communities from post mining land.
“Using the land to develop renewable energy projects can help diversify traditional mining communities when it comes to employment and local industries that support the resources sector, such as Mining Equipment, Technology and Services.
“There is also scope in the program to determine whether renewable energy could be accessed by the region, including energy for other industries or local businesses.
“The research will also consider whether recycled materials can be used to construct the facilities or whether existing site infrastructure can be reused which is important information in the move to a circular economy.
“The findings will be helpful to the rest of the resources industry and for regulators to allow for further innovation in post mining land use in Queensland.
“QRC looks forward to commencing the feasibility study before the end of this year.”
