Queensland's use of call-in powers fuels investor unease over renewable projects

Queensland is exercising its special call-in powers to reassess several renewable energy developments, notably the Bouldercombe Battery Energy Storage System near Rockhampton and two Western Downs projects - Marmadua Energy Park and Middle Creek Energy Hub - following the May 2025 cancellation of the Moonlight Range Wind Farm. The Renewable Energy Alliance, led by Andrew Bray, says the heightened government intervention threatens private sector funding and leaves local communities unsure of outcomes.

Federal Nationals MP David Littleproud has similarly called for state involvement in the federally approved $1.5 billion Tarong West Wind Farm, citing community concerns about a workers’ camp and landscape impact. The state’s Treasurer and Energy Minister David Janetzki maintains that Queensland has more large-scale wind and solar commitments than any other Australian state and stresses a balanced energy mix. He highlighted that community consultation is part of the approval process and that the government remains open to private-sector renewable projects. Academic John Mickel of Queensland University of Technology compared one outlet tension to past disputes over coal mining and gas, warning that uncertainty can raise investment risk and capital costs.