Hydro Tasmania has opened a call for proposals from new wind and solar developers as the State moves to boost renewable generation and strengthen future energy security. The utility is seeking to sign a commercial offtake agreement with one or more projects capable of delivering up to 1,500 GWh of electricity annually, with operations targeted within the next five to six years.
The initiative forms part of Tasmania’s strategy to integrate new renewable capacity with its existing hydropower assets to support forecast growth in electricity demand from 2030, as outlined by the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO).
Hydro Tasmania Executive General Manager Commercial, Vedran Kovac, said fresh investment in solar and wind will be essential for the State’s expanding industrial sector. “Investment in new solar and wind projects will enable existing and future energy-intensive industries to grow in Tasmania. The best way to meet future demand is a combination of wind, solar and hydropower,” he said.
Kovac noted that clarity around the progress of the Marinus Link interconnector has improved confidence among project developers, and securing an offtake agreement with a creditworthy buyer such as Hydro Tasmania can support financing for new projects. “It has to be commercial and stack up for Tasmanians, but working together, we can bring new energy online for the State,” he added.
In 2024, Hydro Tasmania agreed to purchase electricity from a proposed 288 MW solar farm in the Northern Midlands, which, once operational, will become the State’s fourth-largest generator.
The open tender supports the Tasmanian Government’s broader renewable energy agenda and aims to contribute toward meeting demand both locally and within the National Electricity Market.
Expressions of interest close at 10 a.m. on Friday, 5 December.
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