The Australian government has selected 19 renewable energy projects—including wind, solar, and hybrid schemes—as part of its inaugural national tender process, which opened in May. Notable projects include ACEN Australia’s 936MW Valley of the Winds scheme in New South Wales and two Neoen onshore wind farms with a combined capacity of 900MW.
Successful Projects
Three projects from Lightsource BP were also awarded, including the 700MW Sandy Creek Solar Farm and a 300MW solar facility paired with a 560MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Victoria. These initiatives are expected to be operational by 2028.
Capacity Investment Scheme
The Capacity Investment Scheme aims to ensure sufficient new, affordable, and reliable electricity is integrated into the grid to meet demand through 2030. The selected projects were chosen from 84 bids, proposing nearly four and a half times more capacity than what was tendered, demonstrating a robust pipeline of investors eager to develop clean, cost-effective renewable energy solutions in Australia.
Upcoming Tender Rounds
Bids are currently being submitted for the third and fourth tender rounds of the Capacity Investment Scheme, which opened last month. Together, these rounds are expected to deliver over one and a half times more energy than the first tender.
Minister’s Statement
Chris Bowen, Minister for Climate Change and Energy, emphasized the rigorous assessment process conducted by AEMO Services Limited, noting that projects were evaluated based on their potential to lower wholesale energy market prices, enhance system reliability, and provide benefits to local communities and First Nations Australians. He stated, “The Albanese Government expects economic and social benefits for local and First Nations communities are a core part of the transition to renewables.”
Community Benefits
The tender round includes significant commitments to local communities, such as AUD 660 million in shared community benefits, AUD 280 million in benefits for First Nations, over AUD 14 billion in expenditure on local businesses, AUD 60 million in local employment, and the use of more than AUD 200 million of locally milled steel for New South Wales projects.
Conclusion
The Australian government’s commitment to renewable energy through this tender process reflects a strong push towards sustainable energy solutions and community engagement, paving the way for a cleaner energy future.
Sources
- Australian Government – Capacity Investment Scheme Overview
- Renewable Energy World – Australia’s Renewable Energy Tender Results
- Energy Source & Distribution – Australian Renewable Projects Update
