The Queensland government has launched a $520 million investment program aimed at reducing emissions in the state’s metallurgical coal industry, with expressions of interest now open.
The Low Emissions Investment Partnerships (LEIP) program will fund projects that scale up decarbonisation technologies, including the use of alternative fuels and capturing fugitive emissions from coal mines for power generation. The initiative is part of Queensland’s strategy to reach its target of a 75 per cent reduction in emissions by 2035.
Deputy Premier and Treasurer Cameron Dick said the funding would help fast-track emissions reduction while ensuring the long-term sustainability of Queensland’s coal sector.
“Queensland’s progressive coal royalties are delivering for the state, and now they will also support faster emissions reductions,” he said. “This investment will help our major regional employers decarbonise while keeping the industry competitive and protecting jobs.”
Projects under the program will be prioritised if they can be delivered by 2030 and exceed the emissions reductions required under the Australian Government’s Safeguard Mechanism. In the future, the program may expand to include manufacturing and gas facilities.
Queensland’s metallurgical coal is a key component in global steelmaking, and Resources and Critical Minerals Minister Scott Stewart said supporting lower-emissions production methods would benefit both the industry and workers.
“Queensland’s mining industry has always been at the cutting edge of technology, and this program will help coal mines cut emissions in innovative ways,” he said. “This is good for mine operators and the thousands of people who work in the industry.”
The program builds on the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan, which aims to develop cleaner, more reliable, and affordable energy solutions.
The LEIP guidelines have been developed in consultation with industry, and applications are now open for eligible projects.
