Queensland’s controversial $1 billion Moonlight Range Wind Farm — planned to power more than 260,000 homes — has been officially cancelled by the state government.

The project, which included up to 88 giant turbines spread across 1269 hectares, was set to be built about 40km northwest of Rockhampton.

Despite receiving planning approval in late 2024, Planning Minister Jarrod Bleijie scrapped the project, citing new LNP government laws that prioritise community consultation and give local councils more say on major developments.

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The new rules mean renewable energy proposals will be subject to the same level of scrutiny as mining and agriculture projects.

In January, Bleijie issued a “call-in notice” to pause the wind farm — along with three others — pending public feedback.

He formally announced the cancellation on Monday following the government-led review.

“For too long, Queensland communities were ignored by Labor’s failed laws, which shut them out of the approvals process for renewable energy projects proposed to be built in their backyard,” said Bleijie.

“Queenslanders deserve to have a say on any major development in their local community, which is why our government introduced new nation-leading laws to give them a voice on issues that impact the future of their towns.

“Today’s announcement highlights how these laws are already helping to level the playing field by ensuring councils and communities have a seat at the decision-making table.”

The project, proposed by Greenleaf Renewables, included not only wind turbines but also a large-scale battery storage system.

While giant wind turbines produce emission-free electricity when the wind blows, their visual impact and large land usage raise valid community and environmental concerns.

“If communities support these projects, they will proceed,” Bleijie said.

During the government-led, 40-day public consultation period, more than 550 submissions were received and found that 85 per cent of the community submissions opposed the wind farm.

Member for Mirani Glen Kelly, who has been vocal in opposing the project, welcomed the decision as a win for regional Queenslanders.

“Today is a great day for the Mirani electorate!” Kelly said.

“The Moonlight Range project would have cleared 741 hectares of remnant and critical habitat vegetation and involved blasting the tops off ranges to install turbines.”

He credited the LNP government with restoring power to regional voices, adding that the previous Labor government’s planning rules had sidelined communities.

However, major renewable projects in Queensland have now been scrapped and past initiatives, such as the Pioneer-Burdekin pumped hydro project, have been cancelled, leaving a growing gap in the state’s energy grid.

“Every Queenslander will pay a price through higher power bills,” Opposition Leader Steven Miles said.

Greenleaf Renewables has been contacted for comment.