The Australian Government has announced a major expansion of renewable energy infrastructure under Tender 7 of its flagship Capacity Investment Scheme (CIS), backing 19 new clean energy projects across the National Electricity Market (NEM). The projects are expected to deliver enough renewable electricity to power around 4 million Australian households by 2030.
The selected projects will add a combined 7.8 GW of renewable generation capacity alongside 7.9 GWh of battery energy storage through hybrid developments integrating solar, wind, and battery systems. The projects will be developed across New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, Victoria, and South Australia.
According to the government, the initiative is projected to unlock nearly AUD 17 billion in private sector investment while creating approximately 19,000 construction jobs. The program also includes close to AUD 1.2 billion in community-focused commitments aimed at strengthening local participation in the renewable energy transition, including employment pathways, ranger programs, mental health support initiatives, and measures to increase First Nations community participation.
In addition, more than AUD 257 million worth of Australian steel is expected to be used across the projects, supporting domestic manufacturing and supply chains.
Among the largest developments announced are the 1,498 MW Yanco Delta Wind Farm in New South Wales by Origin Energy, the 1,150 MW Bungaban Wind Energy Project in Queensland by Windlab, and the 1,022 MW Theodore Wind Farm in Queensland by Theodore Energy Development.
Other major hybrid renewable projects include the 600 MW Birriwa Solar project by ACEN Australia with 2,400 MWh of battery storage, and the 320 MW Gundary Hybrid Facility by Lightsource BP featuring 1,391 MWh of storage.
Australian Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said the Capacity Investment Scheme is helping deliver cheaper, cleaner, and more reliable energy while supporting jobs and regional investment. He stated that the projects would help lower power prices, strengthen grid reliability, and accelerate emissions reduction through renewable energy backed by storage systems.
Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy Josh Wilson highlighted that the strong market response to the CIS demonstrates investor confidence in Australia’s renewable energy transition. He added that the new projects would support continued renewable energy growth as coal and gas generation decline.
The government also confirmed that Tender 9 under the CIS will open for bids from 25 May 2026, targeting an additional 5 GW of renewable generation capacity. The upcoming tender will include a dedicated allocation for projects offering at least 5% equity or revenue-sharing agreements with First Nations communities.
The announcement follows a recent renewable energy package in Western Australia, where 10 projects involving 1.9 GW of renewable generation and 482 MW of battery storage were approved earlier this month.
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