Council Secures $350,000 for Waste to Energy Project

Goondiwindi Regional Council has been awarded $350,000 from the Queensland Government's $200 million Regional Economic Futures Fund (REFF) to spearhead a cutting-edge waste-to-energy study. This project, one of 18 selected within the Darling Downs Southwest region, will explore innovative solutions to transform local waste streams into valuable resources, driving economic growth and sustainability for the community.

Council's study will evaluate bioenergy technology solutions that can convert agricultural waste, green waste, and sewage sludge into beneficial commodities like heat, electricity, biogas, liquid fuels, byproducts, and green ammonia. This initiative can potentially provide significant efficiencies and cost savings for local businesses, residents, and the Council itself.

Councillor Rob Mackenzie, Council's portfolio holder for Waste Management, highlighted the study's importance for the region, stating “the costs associated with disposing of waste into the ground are growing astronomically. Exploring alternatives not only has the potential to reduce costs but also the possibility of creating new industries and employment for regional areas.

“There are a lot of technologies that can be employed to make better use of waste. This study will help define which, if any, are suited for our local circumstances."

“The Goondiwindi region boasts significant bioenergy resource potential. However, the viability and sustainability of these resources and the appropriate technological solutions need further clarity. Council’s research will address these concerns and could pave the way for new industries and employment opportunities in regional areas," Cr Mackenzie added.

In addition to the feasibility study, the project will develop a toolkit designed to assist other small to medium-sized councils considering waste-to-energy projects. The study is expected to be completed by mid-2025, and its outcomes could benefit not just Goondiwindi but Council’s across the state.