Australia announces 19 renewable projects under Capacity Investment Scheme

Australia’s renewable energy sector is poised for expansion with 19 new projects announced under the Capacity Investment Scheme (CIS) Tender 1. 

These projects will add 6.4GW of clean energy to the national electricity market, powering three million homes and advancing the goal of 82% renewable electricity by 2030.

The projects span New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, and Queensland, incorporating solar, wind, and hybrid technologies, with 40% featuring battery storage for reliability. New South Wales leads with seven projects generating 3.7GW and 900MWh of battery storage. Victoria follows with seven projects producing 1.6GW and 1,500MWh of storage. South Australia will contribute 574MW from two projects, and Queensland will add 550MW with 1,200MWh of storage.

The tender process attracted 84 bids, four and a half times the tendered capacity, showcasing strong investor interest. Future rounds of CIS tenders are expected to deliver even greater capacity.

These projects, set to begin operations between 2026 and 2028, bring economic and social benefits, including A$14 billion invested in local suppliers, A$660 million for community development, A$280 million for First Nations benefits, and $60 million for local jobs and training.