EOIs open for coal sector in emissions reduction program

Expressions of interest are open under a $520 million Queensland program to drive down industry emissions, with an initial focus on the metallurgical coal industry. The Low Emissions Investment Partnerships (LEIP) program aims to spark increased activity in areas such as the use of alternative fuels and capturing fugitive emissions from coal mines for power generation. Resources and Critical Minerals Minister Scott Stewart. “Queensland’s mining industry has always been on the cutting edge of technology and through this program we will be able to help coal mines cut emissions through innovative ways," Resources and Critical Minerals Minister Scott Stewart said. “It is good for those mine operators as well as the thousands of people that work in the industry. “It’s through our progressive coal royalties that we can invest back into the industry and the communities they operate in.” Related: Mine gas, well workovers boost Moranbah project The program will give preference to projects that can be delivered by 2030 and that exceed the Federal Government’s Safeguard Mechanism requirements. In time, the State Government said the program could widen to include manufacturing and gas facilities. It said the LEIP program guidelines had been developed in consultation with industry to enable meaningful partnerships that addressed the different industry challenges and opportunities. The Queensland Resources Council welcomed the funding, saying it would complement the significant investment already being made by resources companies in Queensland to reduce emissions. "While industry is already working hard on solutions to lower emissions like pre-mine drainage, replacing diesel with battery, electric or hydrogen engines and capturing ventilation air methane – this program offers an opportunity to accelerate these trials and ensure that innovations can be swiftly implemented across many mine sites," acting chief executive Judy Bertram said. "The QRC also urges the government to expand its investment in regional Queensland even further, particularly towards better roads and health services. QRC acting chief executive Judy Bertram. "By June 30 this year, Queensland coal companies will have paid around $28 billion in royalty taxes to the State Government over the past two years. "This is an enormous contribution by the coal industry to the State Government budget, and it’s only fair and reasonable that people living in regional areas benefit from the strong performance of the coal sector." Deputy Premier, Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment Cameron Dick said the LEIP investment would ensure Queensland stayed on track for its emissions reduction target of 75 by 35. “Our major regional employers are already looking for ways to decarbonise and now with our support, implementation can be fast-tracked," he said. “Queensland’s progressive coal royalty tiers are delivering for the people of Queensland, and now they will give us the opportunity to help deliver faster emissions reductions. This is beneficial to the long-term sustainability of Queensland’s coal mines." Expressions of interest can be submitted through the Queensland Treasury website.

EOIs open for coal sector in emissions reduction program

Industry Queensland

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