Southern Queensland renewable energy zones

Southern Queensland has a strong farming and agricultural sector, rich mineral deposits and other renewable resources.

To coordinate the planning and development of clean energy infrastructure in the region, we worked with Powerlink to identify 5 potential renewable energy zones (REZs).

REZs will connect multiple clean energy generators, like wind and solar projects, in a coordinated way. This will lower costs and deliver better outcomes for regional communities and industries. They also help to attract investment to the right areas in Southern Queensland.

REZs will be built and connected over time, providing ongoing job opportunities across multiple projects.

Read more about Southern Queensland’s REZs in the Queensland Renewable Energy Zone Roadmap (PDF, 15 MB).

Southern REZs

There are 5 potential renewable energy zones in Southern Queensland:

• Western Downs (in-flight)
• Southern Downs (in-flight)
• Woolooga
• Darling Downs
• Tarong

When completed, these hubs are expected to generate up to 12,200MW of renewable energy.

In-flight REZs

In-flight REZs are renewable energy developments that Powerlink are already progressing under the existing National Electricity Rules. They already have a foundation project in development and may be converted to a declared REZ in the future.

Powerlink is progressing 2 in-flight REZ projects in Southern Queensland:

• Wambo Wind Farm (Western Downs REZ)
• MacIntyre Wind Farm (Southern Downs REZ).

Understanding community needs

A Strategic REZ Readiness Assessment for Southern Queensland will begin in 2024 to help us understand potential impacts and opportunities at a regional level.

Issues such as workforce, housing and infrastructure will be considered, as well as opportunities to grow the region’s economy.

Consultation

Consultation on the draft 2023 Queensland Renewable Energy Zone Roadmap has closed, but you can comment on Queensland’s renewable energy transformation by emailing energyandjobsplan@epw.qld.gov.au.

Read about community feedback on the draft REZ Roadmap and broader energy transformation.

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More information

Find out about the renewable energy transformation in Darling Downs South West.