Working group to assess north-west power needs

Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said an investigation had begun into the future energy needs of the north west region.

Minister Wilson said a working group of key stakeholders, which was set up to determine the region’s long term electricity needs, had already met and planning had now begun.

“The key stakeholders are examining the future energy requirements of the region and their findings will form the basis for commercially-based investment decisions about future supply.

“We’ve called together representatives from major mining and industrial energy sectors, the Queensland Resources Council, CS Energy, Ergon Energy and key government departments.

“Their task is to identify the combined long term power needs of all major electricity consumers and prospective new mining developers in the region,” Mr Wilson said.

“I’m delighted that all key players have come together because that’s the best way to assess the development of new generating capacity to meet the long term needs of the region,” he said.

Member for Mount Isa Betty Kiernan said the working group was one of a number of positive initiatives to emerge out of the recent community cabinet meeting in Mount Isa.

“We’ve got a reliable and secure electricity supply now, but this is about planning for the future. We need to look at the long term electricity needs of the region,” Mrs Kiernan said.

“The north west is one of the most resource-rich regions in the country. The resources boom is providing jobs and job security for our workers, but we still need to focus on the future. The working group is a step in the right direction,” she said.

Minister Wilson said the group had begun the task of identifying the combined long-term power needs of all major electricity consumers and prospective new projects in the region.

“It’s in the early stages of identifying individuals and organisations with an interest in the region,” he said.

“CS Energy and AGL are already investigating an expansion of Mica Creek Power Station, but the working group will look at opening up opportunities for other power generators to enter the region on a commercial basis.

“Consumers in Mount Isa and the surrounding area will continue to have a reliable and secure electricity supply.

“CS Energy advises that Mica Creek Power Station is able to generate sufficient electricity for the next two summers, so the working group will be focusing on the region’s long term requirements.

Media Inquiries: Ellen McIntyre 3225 1819