The Queensland Renewable Energy Council (QREC) has published an inaugural 'Renewable Industry Economic and Social Value Report' providing the first evidence-based snapshot of the renewable energy sector’s contribution across Queensland.

Developed as a proof-of-concept and based on a pilot study that compiled the data from eight member companies, including Ark Energy, the report found participating companies contributed a total of around $1 billion to Queensland’s economy last financial year, including:

• $456 million directly in Queensland supporting 3252 jobs and paying $280 million in wages;
• $412 million spent with 759 local businesses, including $6.9 million with Indigenous suppliers;
• $1.7 million spent across 125 community organisations and groups; and
• More than $3 million to the Queensland Government and more than $500,000 to local governments in rates, and fees and charges.

Regional areas received significant benefits with $926 million spent in southern Queensland, $40.4 million in central Queensland, and $14.2 million in north Queensland.

As more renewable energy projects progress and more data is captured, the sector’s contribution to Queensland’s economy, workforce and regional communities will continue to expand.

QREC Chief Executive Officer Katie-Anne Mulder said renewable energy projects are creating jobs, supporting local businesses and Indigenous suppliers, and delivering meaningful community benefits across Queensland.

“This is just the beginning. Queensland’s renewable energy industry is still emerging, with many projects in the pipeline that are not yet under construction, and we’re excited to see the results in future years as we capture more company data,” Ms Mulder said.

“As announced projects move through planning assessment and approvals stages and more data is captured, the tangible value in terms of investment, economic benefit and employment will only increase and spread more widely across regional Queensland.

“This $1 billion contribution for last financial year – almost $20 million per week – by eight companies alone is underpinned by real investment in Queensland’s economy and renewables future.

“If wind, solar, and storage can be prioritised through the Energy Roadmap underpinned by workable planning laws, the renewable energy industry is well positioned to deliver lasting economic, social and employment benefits through to 2030 and well beyond.

“These findings underline that renewables are already delivering value today, as well as the scale of what lies ahead’. It shows we are just getting started.”

The eight companies that participated in the pilot study were: Acciona, Ark Energy, Cubico, Neoen, RES, Tilt Renewables, WestWind Energy and Windlab.

• 2024-25 Queensland Renewables Economic and Social Value Report
• Overview summary