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The forecast information published and provided as justification for the investment in network infrastructure can be summarised as follows: [note 5]

• In the last 40 years electricity demand in the region has grown by around 500%
• …forecasts indicate electricity demand will grow by about 30% over the next seven years, and by as much as 100% in the next 20 years
• Queensland Government forecasts indicate the population of the whole area is expected to grow by 1.8% per annum over the next 10 years
• The average household today consumes 70% more electricity than a mere 10 years ago!

The Powerlink / Energex energy demand forecasts take little or no account of the following:

• The impact of the recent change in Federal Government policies (emissions trading system 2010), mandatory renewable energy target of 20% by 2020, interim emission caps to meet the long-term goal of emission reduction of 60% by 2050 (recommendations due in June 2008) and the signing of the Kyoto Protocol;
• Targets for the reduction of energy demand through their demand management programs. Energex further state that “The attractiveness of demand management waned in the late 1990s due to energy market reforms and the creation of the National Electricity Market.” [note 6]
• A significant role for other sources of energy in their planning and forecasting;
• Proactive management of the future demand and supply of electricity in Queensland through the investigation of potentially cheaper methods. Powerlink have chosen instead to leave it to individuals, as illustrated by their statement “The responsibility for whether households use more or less electricity rests with individuals – it’s a personal choice.” [note 5]