Leading renewable energy company Edify Energy announced on October 9, 2025, that the Federal Government has awarded its three major solar power stations with Capacity Investment Scheme Agreements. The Smoky Creek, Guthrie's Gap, and Nowingi Solar Power Stations will deliver 900MW of capacity across Queensland and Victoria markets, representing a significant expansion of Australia's clean energy infrastructure.

Project Specifications and Capacity

The three projects will collectively provide 1,080MWp of solar generation capacity combined with 900MW/3,600 MWh of lithium-ion battery energy storage. This combined capacity will be sufficient to support 360,000 households by the end of 2029. The projects utilize advanced hybrid technology through DC-coupling of solar panels and batteries behind a single set of grid-forming inverters, designed to contribute to network stability and dispatch solar energy during peak demand periods.

The Smoky Creek Solar Power Station and Guthrie's Gap Solar Power Station are each rated at 300MW and will be co-located near Biloela in central Queensland. The third facility, the 300MW Nowingi Solar Power Station, will be constructed in northwest Victoria. These installations represent a continuation of Edify's advanced hybrid solar power station design, combining low-cost solar energy with the dispatchability and stability properties of grid-forming battery technologies to meet the demands of a high renewables penetration market.

Economic Impact and Investment

The projects will generate substantial economic benefits for local communities, with shared community and First Nations benefits for the Biloela and Carwarp regions set to exceed USD 28 million. Additionally, an investment of more than USD 1.5 billion will flow to local suppliers and businesses throughout the life of the projects, driving regional growth in both Queensland and Victoria.

This USD 1.5 billion investment will be distributed across local communities, First Nations businesses, local employment opportunities, and local supply chains. The projects are positioned to make a major contribution to the clean energy economies of both states through this substantial financial injection into regional areas.

Employment Opportunities

The construction and operation phases of the three solar power stations will create significant employment opportunities. An estimated 1,200 jobs will be generated during the construction period, while ongoing operations will support 75 permanent positions. These employment figures represent direct job creation in the renewable energy sector across the Queensland and Victorian project locations.

Traditional Land Acknowledgment and Leadership Response

The Smoky Creek and Guthrie's Gap Solar Power Stations will be constructed on the traditional lands of the Gaangalu Nation People (GNP). The Nowingi Solar Power Station will be built on the traditional lands of the First Peoples of the Millewa-Mallee, acknowledging the indigenous heritage of these project locations. Edify Energy Executive Chairman John Cole expressed satisfaction with the federal government's backing, stating:

“This is a cracking result for the Edify team and a strong endorsement of our cutting-edge solar power station design. By harnessing top-tier technologies, we will deliver stable, firm dispatchable solar energy efficiently, and at the times of day it is most needed.” Cole emphasized the community benefits, noting: “With over USD 1.5 billion investment into local communities, First Nations groups and Australian suppliers, these projects will bring lasting benefits to the Biloela and Carwarp regions, through new jobs and use of domestic supply chains.”

The Executive Chairman positioned Edify as leading Australia's energy transition, stating: “Edify is once again at the forefront of Australia's energy transition, driving innovation and new energy system infrastructure for the good of our communities and the National Electricity Market.” Cole acknowledged the federal government's support, saying: “We're grateful to Minister Bowen and the Federal Government for backing our vision and recognizing the strength of our team and projects.

With Government backing bold, future-focused energy solutions, the country's CO2 emissions reduction targets are in sight, and Edify is ready to lead the charge.” The Capacity Investment Scheme Agreements provide federal government support for each of the three projects, marking a significant milestone in Australia's renewable energy development and the expansion of hybrid solar-battery technology deployment across the National Electricity Market.

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