Coal-to-liquids project still on the books
Media claims that Australia’s first coal-to-liquids project was in doubt due to the State Government’s proposed strategic cropping land policy framework have been branded ‘nonsense’ by the project’s proponent, Ambre Energy.
General Manager Business Development, Neil McGregor, confirmed the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process for ambreCTL would continue and that discussions were taking place with the State Government on which parcels of land may be considered ‘strategic’.
“Since announcing our intentions in March, the project’s footprint has reduced from 2,800ha to 2,000ha as the project’s scope has become more defined.
“Until soil tests are completed in coming weeks and the State Government has finalised its evaluation criteria for strategic cropping land, the specific impacts of the policy on ambreCTL cannot be identified.
“However, based on the government’s high level maps, our current assessments indicate that only a small percentage of the site may be specifically impacted, including land adjacent to the western boundary where disturbance will be minimal.”
Mr McGregor said the EIS process for ambreCTL would identify potential issues and impacts from proposed operations and determine the project’s significance to Queensland.
“Ambre Energy will continue to invest in local engineering and environmental assessments, and in researching best practice rehabilitation of mined land internationally. We are mindful of the government’s intentions, but firmly believe this project will not permanently alienate small parcels of the land to future cropping,” he said.
ENDS
Media contact: Matt Adams
0488
289 088
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