Summary Over one million square kilometres of regional Queensland has its electricity needs serviced by one corporation, Ergon Energy. This corporation is facing a critical shortage in the future supply of hardwood power poles, with demand expected to increase from 13000 to 25000 p.a. over the next 15 years. This is unlikely to be met by traditional suppliers. With over 900000 poles in the network, of which about 94% are hardwood, the shortfall will commence as early as 2010. Hardwood is the preferred pole type due to its economic advantages and its superior electrical insulation properties. It is safe and reliable. The Sustainable Pole Supply Project has been initiated to ensure that Ergon Energy has a reliable and economic future supply of poles. To achieve this, the corporation seeks to acquire native forests and to establish plantations for poles. These forests will be located in diverse geographic areas to minimise risk and will be selectively harvested to provide a renewable supply of hardwood power poles while preserving ecosystems and maintaining habitats. Additionally, the benefits of carbon capture and biodiversity conservation can offset other activities of the corporation in meeting its sustainability objectives. This paper discusses the risks and benefits to Ergon Energy and the community of undertaking the project.