The Queensland Resources Council has welcomed the State Government's announcement it will fund a $5 million study into the economic and environmental feasibility of building a gas pipeline in the Bowen Basin.
Resources Minister Scott Stewart today announced today a six-month concept study, with recommendations due by the end of the year.
Last year, the QRC and AMEC's election platform asked the State Government to revisit the feasibility of gas pipelines and associated infrastructure from the world-famous Bowen Basin.
QRC Chief Executive Ian Macfarlane said if found to be feasible, the Bowen Basin gas pipeline project could provide a better connection from the region's gas reservoirs to Queensland's gas markets, delivering a welcome increase in gas supply.
"This pipeline project also has the potential to deliver improved environmental outcomes through better use of waste gas from existing coal mines which will help lower emissions," he said.
"Gas is an essential input for refining and smelting, so this pipeline could add value to Queensland's metals exports.
"The QRC is delighted to see infrastructure like this under consideration, and we welcome the State Government's commitment to working collaboratively with the Commonwealth on this project."
