Wedoany.com Report-Oct. 11, On Friday, the Queensland state government announced plans to operate its coal-fired power plants at least into the 2040s, revising an earlier strategy that prioritized a faster transition to renewable energy. This decision, made in Queensland, a major northeastern region of Australia, could impact the country’s broader emissions reduction goals.

Port workers load a ship with coal at the RG Tanna Coal Terminal located at the town of Gladstone in Queensland, Australia, June 12, 2015.

Queensland, where over 60% of electricity is generated from state-owned coal plants, saw a shift in policy following the election of the centre-right Liberal National Party last year. The new government has moved away from the previous Labor administration’s commitment to phase out coal by 2035 and achieve 80% renewable energy by that time.

“The former Labor government’s ideological decision to close coal units by 2035, regardless of their condition, is officially abolished,” said Queensland Treasurer and Energy Minister David Janetzki, presenting a new five-year energy plan. “Queensland’s coal-fired fleet is the youngest in the country and state-owned coal generators will continue to operate for as long as they are needed in the system and supported by the market.”

The plan emphasizes maintaining coal plants for their designed operational lifespans, which for many extends into the 2040s, with potential extensions if required. Janetzki highlighted that continuing coal generation would help stabilize energy costs for consumers in Queensland, a significant coal-producing region.

In addition to extending coal plant operations, the energy roadmap includes building a new gas-fired power plant and allocating A$1.6 billion ($1.1 billion) to maintain existing coal, gas, and hydroelectric facilities. The plan also commits A$400 million to encourage private investment in renewable energy, gas, and energy storage, aiming to balance traditional and emerging energy sources.

The federal government, led by the Labor Party, recently pledged to reduce national emissions by 62%-70% from 2005 levels by 2035. Queensland’s updated energy strategy, however, reflects a different approach, prioritizing the longevity of its coal infrastructure while still supporting some renewable energy development.