Kestrel Coal Resources is partnering with the Queensland Government in a coal mine waste gas-to-electricity project that is set to reduce its mine’s emissions by more than one million tonnes over eight years.
The project forms the second investment from the State Government’s $520 million Low Emissions Investment Partnerships (LEIP) program.
The LEIP investment from the Queensland Government is a step forward for Kestrel in fast-tracking its decarbonisation activities and is an example of progressive coal royalties being reinvested in coal communities.
The project will expand the underground mine’s drainage system to capture more fugitive gas and prevent its release into the atmosphere.
The 30MW power station will be built at the Kestrel mine, north of Emerald. It will generate enough electricity to power more than 40,000 homes.
The project is expected to create about 160 additional jobs on top of the existing 700-strong mine workforce ahead of full operations in 2026.
Queensland Deputy Premier, Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment, Cameron Dick, said Queensland’s metallurgical coal mining industry provides helps forge the steel that is necessary to build renewable technologies and achieve a net zero transformation.
“The LEIP program is accelerating opportunities to drive down emissions while supporting Queensland’s resources industry.
“Kestrel’s project will mitigate emissions being released into the atmosphere using proven abatement technologies.
“Importantly, we’re protecting jobs in regional Queensland and supporting an industry that is crucial to our renewable energy future”.
Kestrel Coal Resources’ Chief Executive Officer, Shane Hansen, said the company has focused its resources on targeting substantive and innovative emissions reduction projects.
“This funding is a key enabler of our decarbonisation strategy, and we welcome the partnership with Queensland Treasury and the LEIP program.
“The project will help support the future of our workforce as we continue to sustainably supply the steelmaking industry.”
Featured image: Sunshine Seeds/shutterstock.com
