A few weeks ago, Rio Tinto wrote the value of its Boyne Smelter down to zero.
Soaring coal prices at the Gladstone Power Station were passed on to the Smelter, dramatically lowering its value. Rio Tinto, the biggest employer, had already committed to powering the Smelter with mostly renewable energy by 2030. But it may now need to make the energy switch sooner.
This has big implications for the Gladstone Power Station. Late last year, the Queensland Government announced all coal power stations will close by 2035. If the Power Station were to lose the Boyne Smelter as a customer, its lifespan could suddenly and unexpectedly shorten, making this a very urgent issue for workers.
The closure of the coal-fired power station will impact people here in town the most, which is why we as a community need to be proactive about the transition.
Momentum is growing. We have had hundreds of conversations with people like you in the community about how we navigate the future. Our local council was the first in Australia to have a roadmap for switching to a renewable energy-powered economy.
Together, we can have a say on the issues that matter most to us. Things like local housing prices, maternity services in town, and securing steady career paths for youth. Share your vision for Gladstone's future.
I WANT A FAIR TRANSITION FOR GLADSTONE!
Recently, we launched our ‘Gladstone’s future is…’ advertising campaign here in town, to share our community’s hopes for a renewable future.
The campaign highlights the importance of having conversations about energy transition in Gladstone, so news like the Boyne Smelter being written off is less confronting in years to come.
It also helps us all envision what a brighter future looks like, together.
Together, we can and will shape a future for Gladstone that everyone can be proud of.
