The export of Queensland’s coal will further attain robustness with the collaboration between CleanCo and Aurizon to provide renewable energy solutions to drive the transformation in the rail and export infrastructure in Queensland.

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Queensland coal exports boosted by CleanCo–Aurizon deal
Source, photo: australianminingreview.com.au

Queensland coal exports benefit from CleanCo partnership

CleanCo, an energy firm owned by the Queensland Government, has signed an significant deal with Aurizon, the country’s biggest rail freight carrier by market share, to provide clean energy to the Central Queensland Coal Network (CQCN).

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Renewable energy resources to be sourced by Aurizon include the MacIntyre and Kaban wind farms and the Woolooga solar farm owned by CleanCo. Collectively, these energy resources will account for 25% of Aurizon’s energy needs.

Queensland’s Treasurer and Minister for Energy, David Janetzki, said that the partnership shows that renewable energy can boost regional economies. “When large employers such as Aurizon invest in renewable energy, businesses gain confidence to invest, hire, and innovate,” Minister Janetzki said.

As the exportation of coal is one of the cornerstones of the Queensland economy, the move towards clean energy is therefore historic in terms of economic and environmental considerations. The move ensures continued commitment to fulfilling climate change objectives through the state’s most valuable logistics route.

Queensland’s coal exports are consistent with the transition to renewable energy

CleanCo Chief Executive Officer Tom Metcalfe said Queensland’s exporting businesses are finding it increasingly difficult to resist international calls to display lower-emissions supply chains. “By utilizing our solar and wind energy resources, regional industries are gaining a competitive advantage,” he said.

The collaboration also extends to Dalrymple Bay Infrastructure and Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal to form an integrated green supply chain covering mine to port operations in the Mackay area. CleanCo’s strategy has direct implications on regional job creation and export competitiveness.

The commitment to go for “net-zero” operational emissions by 2050 has been reiterated by Aurizon’s Managing Director, Andrew Harding. “This partnership shows how collaboration can yield cleaner and smarter freight solutions to keep Queensland connected and competitive,” he said.

As industry analysts point out, the effect of integrating renewables can be to reduce operating expenses and mitigate volatility in energy markets. As a result of market stability, the transport and export sectors in Queensland can make financial commitments with more confidence.

The CleanCo-Aurizon deal is historic in terms of energy transition in Queensland. The undertaking combines economic development with sustainability and proves that state-run utilities are key to making heavy industries go green.

Source: australianminingreview.com.au

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