The Albanese Government has announced 15 successful large-scale battery energy storage projects under Capacity Investment Scheme (CIS) Tender 8, marking a major step in Australia’s transition toward a cleaner and more reliable electricity system. Together, these projects will provide 4.2 GW of storage capacity and 16.1 GWh of energy storage across New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, and South Australia.
The new battery projects are expected to supply electricity to more than 3.7 million households across Australia’s east coast during peak evening demand. By storing excess renewable electricity generated from solar and wind during the day and releasing it when demand rises, the batteries will help improve grid reliability, reduce pressure on the electricity network, and contribute to lower power costs for consumers.
The latest tender attracted significant interest from the renewable energy sector. According to the government, the total capacity proposed by bidders was almost five times higher than the target capacity, reflecting strong investor confidence in Australia’s energy transition and the government’s clean energy policies.
Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said the battery projects would capture low-cost renewable electricity when solar and wind generation is high and supply that energy back to the grid during periods of increased demand. He said this approach would strengthen Australia’s electricity system while protecting consumers from global fuel price fluctuations and international energy market volatility.
The selected projects are expected to unlock around AUD 6 billion in private sector investment. In addition to supporting clean energy infrastructure, the projects are forecast to deliver approximately AUD 343 million in economic benefits for regional communities and Australian industries. This includes AUD 62 million dedicated to community benefit initiatives and AUD 52 million to encourage the use of Australian-made steel in project development.
The projects are also expected to generate substantial employment opportunities, with more than 6,800 jobs anticipated during construction, operation, and maintenance phases. The government believes these investments will support regional economic growth while strengthening Australia’s clean energy workforce.
Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy Josh Wilson said the Capacity Investment Scheme continues to support Australia’s goal of achieving 82% renewable electricity generation by 2030. He noted that as ageing fossil fuel power stations continue to retire, renewable energy investment remains strong, with Tender 8 following another successful round completed through Tender 7.
The successful portfolio includes projects developed by companies such as Ampyr, Potentia Energy, and Edify Energy. Notable developments include the 400 MW Gelston Energy Park in New South Wales and the Rutherglen Battery project in Queensland. Meanwhile, the government has already launched CIS Tender 10, seeking an additional 4 GW and 16 GWh of dispatchable energy storage capacity across the National Electricity Market, with bids open until August 18, 2026.
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