NSW is launching the biggest renewable energy tender in the state's history, seeking enough new generation to power about one-third of homes across NSW.
Tender 8 is seeking 2.5 gigawatts of renewable energy, making it the largest generation Long-Term Energy Service Agreement tender under the NSW Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap.
The tender will be run by the independent Consumer Trustee, AusEnergy Service Limited (ASL). Once awarded, it will pave the way for NSW to achieve up to 90 per cent of its renewable energy generation target of 12 gigawatts by 2030.
At the same time, ASL will open Tender 9, seeking up to 12 gigawatt-hours of long-duration storage.
NSW is already on track to exceed its long-duration storage targets for 2030 and 2034. The Minns Labor Government is now seeking to unlock 50 per cent more capacity beyond those benchmarks, to build a stronger pipeline of projects and a more reliable electricity system for the people of NSW.
More reliable, renewable energy will keep the lights on when coal-fired power stations retire, and put downward pressure on energy prices to help all households with the cost of living.
Long-duration storage is critical for reliability, as it allows energy to be stored for extended periods and dispatched when demand is high or when weather conditions are not ideal for renewables to generate power. Eligible technologies include large-scale batteries and pumped hydro projects.
When delivered, Tenders 8 and 9 will significantly boost NSW's generation and storage capacity, helping ensure energy is always available when households, industry and businesses need it. They will result in enough generation capacity to power 1.26 million homes.
To adapt to the rapidly evolving market and improvements in battery technology, Tender 8 will also be the first to introduce a new Hybrid Generation Long-Term Energy Service Agreement product, allowing applicants to combine solar or wind generation with battery storage in a single project. This will make it easier for investors to bring forward projects that deliver the best outcomes for consumers.
The successful projects under Tenders 8 and 9 are expected to be determined by late 2026.
Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Penny Sharpe said:
"This is the largest renewable generation tender in NSW history, and it shows just how serious we are about delivering cheaper and more reliable power for households and businesses.
"Tender 8 alone will deliver enough energy to power about one-third of homes in NSW, marking a major step forward in our plan to future‑proof NSW's electricity system. Tender 9 ensures we can store renewable energy, so it can be released on demand when needed, making our grid more stable and reliable.
"This is about keeping the lights on when ageing coal-fired power stations retire and doing it in a way that puts downward pressure on electricity bills for NSW families."
