Queenslanders can comment on the $1 billion CopperString powerline with the release of draft terms of reference for the project’s environmental impact statement (EIS).

The 1100km, 275-kilovolt overhead high-voltage electricity transmission line will connect the North West Minerals Provence and Mount Isa to the National Electricity Market grid south of Townsville.

Proponent CuString proposes to begin construction by the end of 2020.

View the draft terms of reference.

Acting Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Stirling Hinchliffe said the proposed powerline would help the region plug into new industrial opportunities.

“This important project could create up to 400 full-time jobs during its three-and-a-half-year construction phase and support up to 30 full-time jobs once fully operational,” Mr Hinchliffe said.

“The proponent has stated the project will provide reliable electricity to communities and mines through eight local government areas, as well as an alternative electricity supply to the North West Minerals Provence.”

The period for public comment on the draft terms of reference concludes August 2 at 5pm.