The proposed $1.5 billion CopperString project continues to push ahead, with the release of final terms of reference for the project’s environmental impact statement (EIS).

It comes after the The State Government last week pledged $1.18 million for the CopperString 2.0 power project as part of a North West Queensland Economic Diversification Strategy

The project proponent CuString is currently negotiating agreements with foundation customers and financing from the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF).

CuString plans to build a 1100km highvoltage overhead electricity transmission line connecting the North West Minerals Province and Mount Isa to the National Electricity Market grid south of Townsville.

Minister for State Development Cameron Dick said the project could create up to 400 full-time jobs during its three-and-a-half-year construction phase and support around 30 full-time jobs once fully operational.

“The optical fibre network capability of the project would also help to enhance mobile phone and internet services in our state’s north and north-west,” he said.

The final terms of reference followed public consultation and would ensure potential impacts on the natural, social and economic environment were appropriately considered, he said.

“CuString will now prepare a draft EIS, and once that satisfies Queensland’s independent Coordinator-General the community will have another opportunity to have their say on the project.”

Previously announced as a $1 billion project, the proponent has indicated an increase in capital expenditure to $1.5 billion following additional scoping.

View the final terms of reference.