The Albanese Government has announced the largest single expansion of Australia’s main electricity grid, approving 19 new renewable energy projects expected to supply power to around four million households by 2030.
The projects, selected under Tender 7 of the federal Capacity Investment Scheme (CIS), will add 7.8 gigawatts of renewable energy generation and 7.9 gigawatt-hours of battery storage across New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, Victoria and South Australia.
The package includes large-scale wind farms, solar farms and battery storage facilities. The government said the developments are expected to attract around $17 billion in private investment and generate approximately 19,000 construction jobs.
Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen said the projects would provide cheaper, cleaner and more reliable energy while helping ease pressure on electricity prices.
According to the government, nearly $1.2 billion has been allocated to community benefit initiatives, including employment opportunities, ranger programs, mental health support and measures to increase First Nations participation in the renewable energy sector.
The projects are also expected to use more than $257 million worth of Australian steel.
Assistant Climate Change and Energy Minister Josh Wilson said the investment comes at a time when ageing coal-fired power stations are gradually being phased out.
Among the largest projects announced are the 1,498MW Yanco Delta Wind Farm in New South Wales, the 1,150MW Bungaban Wind Energy Project in Queensland and the 1,022MW Theodore Wind Farm in Queensland.
The government also announced that Tender 9 of the Capacity Investment Scheme will open on Monday, aiming to secure an additional 5GW of renewable energy generation capacity across the National Electricity Market.