http://www.themorningbulletin.com.au/news/OPINION-Energy-minister-promotes-new-biofuel-focu/2632807/
OPINION: Energy minister promotes new biofuel focus
QLD Energy Minister Mark Bailey | 9th May 2015 8:00 AM
THE Palaszczuk Government plans to unlock the untapped potential of
Queensland's biofuels and bio-manufacturing industries by introducing an
ethanol mandate to steer the state towards a cleaner, greener energy future.
The economic and environmental benefits of ethanol are recognised
worldwide and we want Queensland to be part of this sustainable energy
solution.
We will work closely with industry on the amount of the mandate so that
it grows in line with production capacity. We want local industry to
capture the market share to ensure that any ethanol sold in Queensland
comes from Queensland.
There's also the opportunity to boost the use of biofuels like biodiesel
blends to take advantage of the growing demand for diesel.
There are several bio plants on the drawing board in Queensland, plus
two in development, with strong interest from a private sector keen to
explore opportunities.
This is backed by a joint Deloitte Access Economics/QUT study that
predicts bio-refining in all its forms could contribute more than $1.8
billion in gross state product to Queensland and create up to 6640 jobs
over the next 20 years.
Later this month, we will release an ethanol biofuels discussion paper
and hold forums across the state to encourage industry stakeholders and
the community to have their say about the ethanol mandate. By working
together we can all help shape the future of this exciting and growing
industry.
Consultation will look at consumer protections and consumer education
around the benefits of E10.
Importantly, regular unleaded petrol will still be available at petrol
stations in Queensland. If drivers don't want to use ethanol fuels, they
won't have to.
A bill will be introduced into parliament to set the framework for the
mandate and we will work closely with all members of parliament to seek
their support to pass legislation by the end of the year.
Early feedback from the RACQ, the Canegrowers and the Australian Sugar
Milling Council has been encouraging and I look forward to hearing your
views and working with you as we embark on an exciting new era in
biofuel technology.
Hon Mark Bailey MP
Minister for Energy
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