National environment group the Australian Conservation Foundation has welcomed the passing of legislation today to cut Queensland's emissions by 75% by 2035 and enshrine in law a strong target for the state to get 80% of its electricity from renewable energy by 2035.
The targets follow the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan roadmap to transition all Queensland coal-fired power stations to be operating as clean energy hubs by 2035.
"Given Queensland's summer of extreme weather, this is essential legislation," said ACF's climate and energy program manager Gavan McFadzean.
"We congratulate the Miles government for significantly lifting climate ambition and action in Australia's most polluting and fossil fuel dependent state.
"With some of the best solar and wind resources anywhere in the world, this legislation sets Queensland on a trajectory to transition to clean energy, while driving down climate pollution to help protect the state from more severe extreme weather events.
"The Queensland government has set strong targets backed by a clear plan to get there.
"We also congratulate state LNP Opposition Leader David Crisafulli for supporting the 75% by 2035 emissions reduction target, but we are frustrated by the LNP's decision to vote against the bill that sets out the pathway to get there, including the new renewable energy targets.
"It's essential that ambitious, durable climate targets and policies have bipartisan backing, so the LNP's support just months out from a state election is a breakthrough.
"But by opposing the renewable energy targets legislation, the LNP has an emissions reduction target without a plan. This sends mixed messages to businesses that want to invest in renewables, clean tech and jobs in Queensland.
"Queenslanders are entitled to know how the LNP plans to meet the 75% by 2035 emissions reduction target before they head to the polls in October. If the LNP is fair dinkum, it needs to outline a detailed plan for Queensland's clean energy transition before the election.
"The Queensland LNP now stands in contrast to its federal counterparts, who still debate the reality of climate change, propose fanciful nuclear energy pipe dreams and oppose federal Labor's modest 43% by 2030 emissions reduction target."
