The Queensland Government released its state energy roadmap on Friday. The roadmap outlines how Queensland will transition to cleaner, more reliable energy over the coming decades. The five-year plan sets out the role that coal, gas, wind, solar, pumped hydro and battery storage will play in Queensland’s long-term energy mix. It also highlights major investment and infrastructure projects aimed at supporting regional jobs and boosting energy security. The roadmap is designed to attract private sector participation and ensure a steady infrastructure and construction pipeline. It’s part of Queensland’s broader strategy to cut emissions while keeping energy stable and affordable for households and businesses.

So, what’s included in the plan?

New gas-fired power plant

The roadmap includes plans to build a new gas-fired power plant to help ensure reliability as the state transitions away from coal. As part of these plans, the Queensland Investment Corporation will tender for a new privately owned 400-megawatt gas-fired electricity plant. Overall gas generation is expected to double by 2035.

Extended life of coal-fired power plants

The government has announced it will keep some of the state’s coal-fired plants running into the 2050s. This decision backtracks on the previous Labor government’s plan, which would have seen coal-fired power generation end in Queensland by 2035. It’s now anticipated that the state-owned Kogan Creek and Stanwell plants will keep operating until the 2040s, while the privately owned Millmerran power station is now scheduled to run until 2051. Officials say this approach is designed to ensure a smooth energy transition. It also aims to prevent sudden job losses in regional communities that depend on coal-fired generation.

Energy Investment Fund

A $400 million Energy Investment Fund will also be set up. This will be established with the aim of attracting private sector investment to work with government-owned corporations. The fund will help finance renewable energy projects, storage systems and transmission upgrades across the state. It is expected to play a key role in encouraging private sector confidence and accelerating the delivery of large-scale infrastructure.

Investor Gateway

The Queensland Investment Corporation  is creating what it calls an “Investor Gateway.” This will be a formal process or platform that connects private companies and investors with Queensland’s government-owned energy corporations (like Stanwell, CS Energy and Powerlink). The gateway is designed to make it easier and more coordinated for the private sector to get involved in new energy projects across the state. For example, renewable energy farms, battery storage, transmission lines, hydrogen facilities and related infrastructure. It is expected to streamline approvals and help develop whole-of-state energy solutions.

Increased connectivity to the electricity grid

The government has also pledged to deliver the CopperString project. This will see 1,100 kilometres of powerline network built from Townsville to Mt Isa, connecting towns and mines to the power network for the first time. The project is seen as critical to unlocking new industrial and mining opportunities in North Queensland, while improving reliability for remote communities.

What’s been the reaction?

Business and industry groups have welcomed the roadmap, saying it provides much-needed certainty for long-term investment and planning.

However, environmental activists are concerned about the impact keeping coal-fired plants open longer could have on the environment. There are fears this may make it harder for the Federal Government to meet its national emissions reduction targets.

Despite these concerns, the government’s plan will lead to increased job opportunities in the construction sector. The demand will extend to engineers, project managers, electricians, tradespeople and construction professionals. Major projects such as CopperString and the expansion of gas and renewable energy assets are expected to create a wide range of opportunities over the coming years. If you’re already in the industry, it’s a great time to strengthen your career path. And if you’re looking to move into the energy and infrastructure sector, the opportunities for growth have never been stronger.

Are you looking for a career in construction? Construction Resumes can help. We are pleased to offer a range of professional services, including expert resume writing and cover letter writing tailored to your field. Our team can help you highlight your skills and experience to stand out in Queensland’s evolving construction and energy sectors.

Article References

Cropp, R (10 October 2025) ‘Queensland to build new gas plant, run coal into 2050s‘, Financial Review, accessed 10 October 2025.

Stewart, R (10 October 2025) ‘Queensland government to set up $400m energy investment fund‘ ABC News, accessed 10 October 2025.