Kestrel coal to generate power while cutting emissions

The Queensland government is investing in a new gas-to-electricity power project that will reduce mining emissions by more than one million tonnes of carbon dioxide.

The project will expand the Kestrel Coal Resources underground mine’s drainage system to capture more fugitive gas, preventing it from being released into the atmosphere.

The coal mine waste gas-to-electricity project investment is the second investment from $520 million Low Emissions Investment Partnerships (LEIP) programme.

Kestrel Coal Resources Chief Executive Officer, Shane Hansen said: “Kestrel has focussed our resources on targeting substantive and innovative emissions reduction projects.

“This funding is a key enabler of our decarbonisation strategy and we welcome the partnership with Queensland Treasury and the LEIP programme.”

LEIP investment will see a 30-megawatt power station built at the Kestrel mine, north of Emerald, and will generate enough electricity to power more than 40,000 homes.

The project is expected to create about 160 additional jobs on top of the existing, 700-strong mine workforece, ahead of full operations in 2026.

The Deputy Premier, Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment Cameron Dick said: “The LEIP programme is accelerating opportunities to drive down emissions, while supporting Queensland’s resources industry.

“Kestrel’s project will mitigate emissions being released into the atmosphere using proven abatement technologies.”

Picture: Kestrel Coal Resources