Queensland’s energy landscape is undergoing a significant recalibration following the Crisafulli Government’s formal repeal of the state’s legislated renewable energy targets in December 2025, a move that continues to reverberate through the sector in April 2026. This decisive policy shift, further outlined in the recently released Energy Roadmap on April 17, 2026, prioritises energy affordability and reliability over the previous administration’s ambitious renewable commitments, sparking both industry concern and cautious optimism.
The former Labor government’s targets, which aimed for 70% renewable electricity by 2032 and 80% by 2035, were officially revoked on December 10, 2025. The Crisafulli administration argued these benchmarks were inflexible, unrealistic, and posed a risk of driving up power costs for Queensland consumers. This policy reversal has been described by some as a ‘whiplash’ for the state’s energy transition.
The Crisafulli Government’s New Energy Roadmap
Released on April 17, 2026, the Crisafulli Government’s Energy Roadmap outlines a strategy focused on delivering affordable, reliable, and sustainable power for Queensland. Key planks of this new direction include continued investment in existing coal and gas generation to safeguard domestic energy security. This approach signals a departure from the rapid phase-out plans of the previous government, with state-owned coal plants now anticipated to operate until at least 2046, a decade longer than initially envisioned.
“Power prices in Queensland are set to drop by about 10 per cent next financial year, in contrast with prices soaring under Labor by 19.9 per cent in a single year after the former Government failed to properly maintain power plants.”
Treasurer and Minister for Energy, The Honourable David Janetzki, stated that this roadmap is designed to put downward pressure on energy prices, with expectations of approximately a 10% drop in Queensland power prices next financial year. The government is committed to improving existing infrastructure and boosting private investment in new assets, including supporting new renewables and storage where viable.
Unlocking New Fossil Fuel Potential
As part of the Energy Roadmap, the Queensland government has also announced plans to fast-track investigations into the Taroom Trough’s oil and gas potential, a move aimed at unlocking new energy supply. On April 24, 2026, the State Government activated the Coordinator-General’s powers to streamline approvals across the basin, with the stated goal of accelerating development.
This emphasis on fossil fuels has drawn sharp criticism from environmental groups. The Queensland Conservation Council argues that developing the Taroom Trough will do little to lower household energy bills, as prices are largely set on international markets, and instead poses significant risks to the Queensland environment and the Great Barrier Reef. They suggest more direct measures, such as a 25% tax on gas exports, would provide faster and more certain benefits to households. For more context on gas supply challenges, readers can refer to our guide: Australia’s 2026 Winter Gas Squeeze: How to Prepare Your Home and Avoid Bill Shock.
Implications for Renewable Energy and Investment
The repeal of legislated targets and the shift in policy direction have generated uncertainty within the renewable energy sector. While the Crisafulli Government’s Energy Roadmap states it will support the delivery of new renewables and storage, the absence of binding targets removes a key driver for large-scale investment.
Industry bodies and environmental advocates have expressed concern that this policy reversal could decelerate clean energy deployment in a state rich in renewable resources, potentially straining the eastern electricity grid. The Clean Energy Council’s data for 2024 showed a record year for committed solar, wind, and energy storage projects in Queensland under the previous government’s targets, a trend now facing headwinds.
Despite the broader policy changes, some targeted renewable initiatives continue. The Queensland government, for instance, committed AU$25 million on April 22, 2026, from its AU$180.6 million Sovereign Industry Development Fund to support Ampol’s Lytton refinery in Brisbane for renewable diesel production, with future potential for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). This marks the first project funded under the Sovereign Industry Development Fund, highlighting a focus on domestic fuel capability and emissions reduction in transport.
Additionally, the AU$200 million North West Energy Fund (NWEF), announced in March 2026, aims to support private sector-led renewable energy generation, battery storage, and microgrid projects in North West Queensland. Market sounding for the NWEF commenced in March, engaging over twenty organisations to deliver bespoke solutions for the region. This fund was established as part of changes to the Copperstring transmission project, deferring the western link while focusing on local solutions.
| Policy Aspect | Former (Labor) Government | Current (Crisafulli) Government |
|---|---|---|
| Renewable Energy Targets | 70% by 2032, 80% by 2035 (legislated) | Repealed (December 2025) |
| Coal-Fired Power Plants | Phased out by 2035 | Operations extended until at least 2046 |
| Energy Price Focus | Renewable transition focus | Affordability and reliability focus |
| Oil & Gas Exploration | Less emphasis | Fast-tracking Taroom Trough potential |
| Expected Price Impact | Rising prices (criticised) | Expected 10% drop next financial year |
For homeowners and businesses looking to navigate the evolving energy market, understanding state-specific support and broader economic trends remains crucial. While direct renewable energy targets have been removed, government investment in energy infrastructure and specific clean fuel projects continues. Exploring options for personal energy independence through solar and batteries, and understanding financing options, can provide some certainty amidst policy shifts. For those considering renewable energy investments, our guide on Best Solar Panel & Home Battery Financing Options in Australia 2026: Loans, PPAs & Green Mortgages Explained remains a valuable resource.
The Queensland government’s revised energy strategy marks a significant pivot, prioritising short-term reliability and affordability through a diversified energy mix that includes a longer reliance on traditional fossil fuels. The long-term implications for the state’s emissions reduction trajectory and its role in Australia’s broader energy transition will be a key area of observation in the coming years.