An agreement has been announced between Queensland Government-owned energy corporation CleanCo and freight operator Aurizon.
Under the agreement, CleanCo will provide roughly one-quarter of Aurizon’s electricity needs from renewable sources. The move is designed to strengthen the competitiveness of the state’s metallurgical coal exports by reducing the carbon footprint of its supply chain.
The energy will be generated by three key renewable projects: the MacIntyre Wind Farm (Western Downs), the Kaban Wind Farm (far north Queensland), and the Woolooga Solar Farm. This power will be used for Aurizon’s Central Queensland Coal Network, Australia’s largest electrified rail system and a vital component of the state’s export industry.
Queensland Treasurer and Energy Minister David Janetzki stated that the partnership demonstrates how state-owned corporations are supporting regional economies.
“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,” Janetzki said.
The partnership aligns with Aurizon’s broader objectives, including its goal of achieving net-zero operational emissions by 2050. Aurizon chief executive officer (CEO) Andrew Harding described the deal as “a great example” of achieving lower-emission supply chains.
CleanCo CEO Tom Metcalfe said that exporters are under “increasing pressure to demonstrate lower-emission supply chains”, adding that this agreement assists them in global competition while unlocking regional investment.
“By utilising Queensland’s abundant solar and wind to support Queensland businesses, we are unlocking regional jobs and investment across the state,” Metcalfe said.
