Tomago Aluminium, Australia's largest aluminium smelter, is transitioning to renewables with a $2.5 billion government package, aiming to meet international demand for low carbon products by adding 3,000 MW of new solar and wind capacity. The deal, managed through Snowy Hydro, will reduce power costs by $35/MWh and support Rio Tinto's goal of operating on 100% renewable energy by 2033. Similar agreements have been made for smelters in Queensland, with a focus on decarbonization activities and grid support. This transition is crucial for Australia to remain competitive globally, unlock new renewable investments, create jobs, and modernize the energy grid for a cleaner, more resilient future.
Tag: Queensland
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Sunshine state sets new solar record – in the middle of winter
Queensland achieved a new record for the share of solar power in its electricity mix during winter, with large-scale solar supplying 38.2% of electricity consumption on a Sunday morning. Solar output peaked at 3.1 MW, setting a new record for battery-stored energy at 5,646 megawatt-hours, while the maximum renewable energy share reached just under 76% of consumption. Despite some curtailment, the state is making progress towards a cleaner energy future, showcasing changing daytime operating conditions in Queensland.
https://reneweconomy.com.au/sunshine-state-sets-new-solar-record-in-the-middle-of-winter/
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Virtual home-energy trading study lowers costs, boosts access to clean power
Deakin University conducted a trial on a virtual energy network (VEN) that allows households and small businesses to buy and sell solar and battery power, involving 300 sellers and buyers from Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia. The project aims to create a more inclusive and flexible energy system in Australia, supporting the transition to net zero emissions by enabling people with solar power to sell their surplus energy and helping more Australians access clean energy. The initiative is supported by Energy Locals, Enosi's Powertracer software, and funded through Energy Consumers Australia's Grants Program, resulting in cheaper electricity rates and providing a pathway for consumers without solar panels.
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Wind, solar and battery records tumble on last day of Autumn in Australia’s most coal dependent grid
Queensland achieved a new record of 79.5% instantaneous renewables plus storage share of consumption on May 31, 2026, surpassing the previous high of 78.4% in April 2026. This increase was attributed to the use of batteries, exports, and curtailment to manage the midday surplus, showcasing the growing importance of storage in NEM operations. Despite being the most coal-dependent grid in Australia, Queensland's transition towards higher renewable energy usage is evident. The significant increase in battery share of consumption highlights the state's progress towards a more sustainable energy future.
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RWE secures CIS Tender 7 for 1.1GW Theodore Wind Farm
RWE has secured a contract for the 1.1GW Theodore onshore wind project in Central Queensland, which aims to establish a wind farm with up to 170 turbines and a battery storage facility to provide electricity for around 500,000 homes in Queensland. Construction is set to begin later this year, pending approvals, and will employ up to 500 workers during peak times. This project is part of the Australian government's support for 19 new renewable energy initiatives, with the goal of providing cleaner, more affordable, and reliable power for four million households by 2030.
https://www.power-technology.com/news/rwe-cis-tender-7-theodore-wind-farm/
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Australia’s biggest solar battery hybrid projects lock in finance in landmark deal to power heavy industry
Two of the biggest solar and battery hybrid projects in Australia, Smoky Creek and Guthrie's Gap, have reached financial close with the backing of 14 lenders. These projects will provide 600 MW of solar and 600 MW and 2,400 MWh of battery storage to help power aluminium smelters and refineries in Queensland as part of Rio Tinto's plan to transition to green energy and storage by 2029. The federal government's Capacity Investment Scheme is supporting the projects, which are crucial for reaching renewable energy targets and improving reliability as aging thermal generation retires. Edify is also developing the Hill wind farm in South Australia and the Jinbi solar farm in Western Australia, with strong community support and a focus on creating up to 800 jobs during construction, local procurement, and skills training. The financing package for these projects is a first for Australia and will set a foundation for future renewable energy projects, leaving a positive legacy in the region through a community benefits program.
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Record battery output, big winds push monthly gas generation to lowest level in more than two decades
In April, Queensland led in wind, solar, and battery output, with a notable increase in wind energy generation. The state also achieved a record-breaking month for big batteries, with over 100 GWh discharged by utility-scale battery energy storage systems. Australian utility PV and wind assets collectively generated 4.7 TWh, marking a 24% increase from the previous year. Gas generation across the National Electricity Market decreased by 49%, showcasing the ongoing trend of batteries displacing gas during the evening peak.
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Renewables hit 80 pct share in Australia’s most coal dependent grid for first time
Queensland's grid has reached 80% renewables, driven by solar power, wind, and hydro, despite heavy coal dependence. New projects are fueling the growth of renewables, with households and businesses embracing rooftop solar and batteries. The state government plans to continue burning coal for another two decades, but grid scale batteries are being built throughout the state. Meanwhile, NSW has a slightly higher coal capacity but posted new battery storage records, indicating a shift towards cleaner energy solutions.
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Giant copper project signs deal for Australia’s biggest off-grid hybrid renewables facility
Harmony Gold and Aggreko have partnered to develop a renewable power facility at the Eva copper mine project in Queensland, Australia. The facility will consist of a 118 MWp solar farm, a 250 MWh battery, and a 104 MVA thermal power plant, with the goal of reaching net zero emissions by 2035. Future plans may involve incorporating wind energy and connecting to the grid through the Copperstring transmission project. This long-term commitment to renewable energy showcases a significant step towards sustainable practices in the mining industry.