Queensland’s 720MWp solar and 600MW/2.4GWh battery projects reach financial close, backed by Rio Tinto power agreements.
Edify Energy has finalized financing for two Queensland solar and battery projects totaling 720MWp of solar capacity and 600MW/2.4GWh of storage. The $754m initiative is Australia’s largest hybrid solar-battery development under construction, supported by 14 lenders and shareholder La Caisse.
The projects, Smoky Creek and Guthrie’s Gap, will connect to Powerlink’s 275kV grid via a new terminal station. Phase one includes a 600MW grid link and lithium-ion batteries distributed across the solar field. Malaysia’s Gamuda will construct the assets under RM3bn contracts, with completion expected in 2.5 years.
Rio Tinto has agreed to purchase 90% of the power and storage capacity, underpinning the projects’ economics. DT Infrastructure, Gamuda’s Australian subsidiary, will operate and maintain the assets post-construction.