The Queensland Government has announced an extension of the Queensland Electric Super Highway (QESH) with plans to almost double the length of the highway.
The $2.75 million commitment will deliver 18 new charging sites across Queensland, with the infrastructure set to support zero emission travel for motorists throughout outback and North-west Queensland.
The three-phase rollout of the project will build upon the state government’s previous $5.3 million investment, which included the construction of 31 existing electric vehicle charging sites.
Queensland’s Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the project will help to support the Queensland Government Zero Emission Vehicle Strategy – a new initiative by the state government aimed to encourage greater uptake of zero emission vehicles.
“We’ll see the length double from just under 2000 kilometres to almost 3800 kilometres and once complete, will feature 49 fast charging locations connecting EV drivers across Queensland,” Bailey said.
“Since 2017, electric vehicles sales in Queensland have increased more than 1037 per cent – from 417 to 4743 – and use of the QESH is at an all-time high.”
“Electric vehicle drivers will be able to take trips from Brisbane to Mount Isa, Goondiwindi to Emerald, and Longreach to Cairns knowing there are charging stations along the way.”
The Super Highway extension will also increase progress towards the state government’s target of using 50 per cent renewable energy by 2030.
The new charging stations will be located at: Charters Towers, Hughenden, Julia Creek, Cloncurry, Mount Isa, Goondiwindi, Stanthorpe, Winton, Longreach, Barcaldine, Blackall, Emerald, Dingo, Charleville, Roma, Miles, Kingaroy and Esk.
Last week, the Queensland Government released its 2021-22 budget, which includes a $2 billion fund dedicated to creating renewable energy and hydrogen jobs through the Queensland Renewable Energy and Hydrogen Jobs Fund.
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