Queensland coal exports boosted by sustainable energy deal

Cleanco, a Queensland Government-owned energy provider, has made a deal with rail freight operator Aurizon to deliver affordable and reliable renewable energy to the state’s coal export industry.

Aurizon operates Australia’s largest electrified rail freight system, the Central Queensland coal network (CQCN), and by securing renewable energy from CleanCo it can continue operating this critical infrastructure for export industries and local communities, while lowering emissions.

Under the deal, CleanCo will supply Aurizon with renewable energy from the MacIntyre wind farm in the Western Downs, the Kaban wind farm in Far North Queensland and the Woolooga solar farm north of Brisbane.

Queensland Treasurer and Energy Minister David Janetzki says the agreement demonstrates how state-owned energy suppliers are directly supporting regional exports.

“Regional Queensland is at the heart of our economy, and partnerships like this show how reliable, sustainable energy is keeping those industries strong,” he said.

“With major employers like Aurizon and its customers committed to sustainable energy, it sends a powerful signal across the supply chain, giving regional businesses the certainty they need to invest, create jobs and grow.

“Importantly, it shows CleanCo is delivering outcomes that matter — supporting jobs, communities and our export competitiveness.”

The agreement will see about 25% of Aurizon’s electricity needs met by renewable energy.

CleanCo chief executive Tom Metcalfe says the agreement highlights how the company’s unique portfolio is helping regional industries compete on the world stage.

“Queensland’s exporters are under increasing pressure to demonstrate lower-emission supply chains and this partnership shows how CleanCo can help deliver that,” he said.

“By utilising Queensland’s abundant solar and wind to support Queensland businesses, we are unlocking regional jobs and investment across the state.”

Through partnerships with Aurizon, Dalrymple Bay Infrastructure and Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal, CleanCo is embedding sustainable, lower-emission energy across every stage of the supply chain in the Mackay region, from rail transport to port operations.

Aurizon chief executive and managing director Andrew Harding says the agreement with CleanCo supports the company’s long-term strategy.

“Aurizon is committed to a target of net-zero operational emissions by 2050, with a roadmap of initiatives to decarbonise our trains, our rail infrastructure and our facilities,” he said.

“This partnership with CleanCo is a great example of how we can work together to deliver lower-emission supply chains.”