Orica has signed a Statement of Co-operation with the Queensland government to endorse and collaborate on clean energy technology in the mining, quarrying, manufacturing and construction industries.
The blast technology specialist was joined by Alpha HPA in signing the Statement and followed major miner Rio Tinto’s signature in mid-October.
The companies’ signatures seek to help in cementing the region as an industrial and renewable energy powerhouse.
“Queensland is renewable ready and Central Queensland is perfectly primed to take advantage of the state’s natural energy advantage while creating economic opportunities,” Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development Steven Miles said.
“This Statement of Co-operation ensures that Queensland can benefit from the global shift towards decarbonisation, starting in Central Queensland.
“The shared vision, between industry and government, for renewables in Central Queensland is great news for community members, who will benefit from more jobs right along the supply chain.”
The Statement of Co-operation is designed to secure the future competitiveness of Queensland, adding value to a natural energy advantage to drive employment and economic outcomes.
It will focus on three areas: committing to industry by establishing certainty for current industry and growing demand, delivering a globally competitive energy solution that is centred around firmed, low carbon electricity for industry, and growing the industries of the future.
“With so much experience in decarbonisation, Orica can help Queensland become a global leader in renewable energy and succeed in a low carbon economy, bringing substantial environment, economic and social benefits to the state,” Orica Australia Pacific’s vice president John Cooper said.
Miles said this was only the beginning of a collaboration that will continue to grow, meaning more jobs, getting more of the supply chain and holding on to value for Queenslanders.
Solid FY results
Orica’s support followed its full year results presentation where a strategy underpinned by optimised operations, delivering smarter solutions, and partnering for progress was announced – the latter exemplified by the Statement of Co-operation.
Focusing on four key business verticals of mining, quarrying and construction, digital and mining chemicals, Orica’s managing director Sanjeev Gandhi showed faith in the company’s future.
“Our four key business verticals will allow us to leverage our strengths and create opportunities for growth beyond blasting,” Gandhi said.
“Our customers share our appetite to leverage new technology in order to improve safety, productivity and sustainability outcomes which will play a pivotal role as we look to build on our expanded offering in high growth and future-facing commodities.”
The company has committed to sustainability targets to reduce scope 1 and 2 operational emissions by at least 40 per cent by 2030, with net zero emissions the goal for 2050.
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