A major shift in Queensland's renewable energy landscape has unfolded, sparking debate and raising questions about the future of wind power in the state. The state government's CleanCo has abruptly withdrawn from the Moah Creek Wind Farm project, citing misalignment with its energy roadmap, but has simultaneously partnered with another wind farm in the state's northwest.
Moah Creek Wind Farm, an ambitious proposal by private developer Central Queensland Power (CQP), aimed to harness the wind on agricultural land west of Rockhampton. With 60 turbines, it promised to power nearly 200,000 homes. However, CleanCo, the publicly owned generator, has now distanced itself from the project, stating that it doesn't fit with its current strategic goals and investment priorities given the evolving energy market conditions.
In a statement, CleanCo explained that it had assessed all projects in development and decided to withdraw from further involvement in Moah Creek Wind Farm. They emphasized their ongoing discussions with CQP regarding a potential future partnership, suggesting that the door is not entirely closed.
The former Palaszczuk government had announced CleanCo's partnership with CQP in October 2023, with plans for the project to transition to public ownership upon completion. This marked CleanCo's first partnership since its establishment in 2018. However, the Crisafulli government has now redirected CleanCo's focus to the state's northwest, where they've signed a 10-year agreement with Windlab to secure a significant portion of Kennedy Energy Park's wind energy output from 2028.
Treasurer David Janetzki highlighted the government's commitment to a responsible energy transition, stating, "We know the shift towards renewables can benefit regional communities, but it must be done correctly." The Kennedy Energy Park, located between Mount Isa and Townsville, boasts an impressive array of renewable energy sources, including a wind farm, solar panels, and battery storage.
But here's where it gets controversial: while CleanCo has pulled out, Central Queensland Power remains committed to the Moah Creek project. Director Matt Rebbeck insists it's a well-positioned venture, having secured federal funding through the Australian Government Capacity Investment Scheme last October. CQP has confirmed that the funding is still in place and open to another investor, indicating that the project may still go ahead.
And this is the part most people miss: the impact on local communities. Wycarbah grazier Nick Holland, a neighbor of the proposed wind farm, submitted a petition with over 1,000 signatures to the state government last year, calling for the project to be scrapped. Mr. Holland expressed relief at CleanCo's withdrawal, citing concerns about the project's location and its potential impact on residents, including visual disruptions, construction-related issues, and environmental considerations.
The Moah Creek Wind Farm project is currently undergoing assessment under the federal government's Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act. It received state government approval in 2023. This project's fate highlights the delicate balance between renewable energy development and community interests, raising questions about the role of public consultation and community benefit agreements in shaping Queensland's energy future.
In a similar vein, the state government's decision to axe the $1 billion Moonlight Range Wind Farm project last year, just five months after state planning department approval, underscores the complexities and controversies surrounding wind farm developments. Meanwhile, Andrew "Twiggy" Forrest's Clarke Creek Wind Farm, approved before the LNP state government's legislative changes in 2025, has opened after three years of construction, demonstrating the impact of policy shifts on renewable energy projects.
So, what does this all mean for Queensland's renewable energy future? The state's energy roadmap is clearly evolving, and the government's decisions are shaping the landscape of wind power development. With these recent developments, the debate over the balance between renewable energy goals and community interests is sure to intensify. What are your thoughts? Do you think the government is making the right moves? Feel free to share your opinions and engage in the discussion in the comments below!
