Queenslanders are being asked to share their vision for the State’s electricity future as the Newman Government released the 30 Year Electricity Strategy discussion paper today.

Minister for Energy and Water Supply Mark McArdle said Queensland’s electricity supply system is entering a period of unprecedented change to the way electricity is made, moved, sold and consumed across our state

“We need Queenslanders to share their vision for the future which will shape the final 30 Year Electricity Strategy, to be released next year,” Mr McArdle said.

“When thinking about the future we need to think beyond the horizon and question the possibilities of innovation. Will we need to plug in our appliances, or will electricity be sent wirelessly? Will our roofs be painted with organic solar cells that power batteries in our homes?”

Mr McArdle said as well as setting a plan for our long-term future, the discussion paper also seeks comment on a number of issues that aim to address immediate challenges for Queensland.

“In the short-term, we must address the build-up of costs which are driving the unsustainable electricity price rises we have seen over the past few years,” Mr McArdle said.

“To have the best electricity sector for Queenslanders, we must develop a policy framework that will meet the future needs of the community.”

Mr McArdle said in preparing the strategy, the Government cannot and will not attempt this significant reform without input from Queensland businesses, farmers and households.

“Having a strong electricity supply system relies on government, industry and consumers working together to establish a common understanding of the challenges facing the sector and developing a way forward on key issues.”

The discussion paper is available at www.dews.qld.gov.au, with submissions closing on Friday 6 December 2013.

News and discussion on Queensland’s electricity sector can be found on the ‘Energy Queensland’ Facebook page, or by following @EnergyQld on Twitter.