September 11, 2013
Queenslanders are being asked to share their vision for the State’s electricity future with the release today of the 30 Year Electricity Strategy discussion paper by the State Government.
Energy Minister Mark McArdle said Queensland’s electricity supply system was entering a period of unprecedented change to the way electricity is made, moved, sold and consumed across the State.
“We need Queenslanders to share their vision for the future which will shape the final 30 Year Electricity Strategy, to be released next year,” Mr McArdle said.
“When thinking about the future we need to think beyond the horizon and question the possibilities of innovation. Will we need to plug in our appliances, or will electricity be sent wirelessly? Will our roofs be painted with organic solar cells that power batteries in our homes?”
Mr McArdle said as well as setting a plan for our long-term future, the discussion paper also sought comment on a number of issues that aimed to address immediate challenges for Queensland.
“In the short-term, we must address the build-up of costs which are driving the unsustainable electricity price rises we have seen over the past few years,” Mr McArdle said.
“To have the best electricity sector for Queenslanders, we must develop a policy framework that will meet the future needs of the community.”
Mr McArdle said the government wanted input from Queensland businesses, farmers and households.
The discussion paper is available at www.dews.qld.gov.au
Submissions close on Friday, December 6, 2013.
