Australia approves 15 battery storage projects under CIS Tender 8

The Australian government has selected 15 large‑scale battery energy storage projects under the Capacity Investment Scheme (CIS) Tender 8. The projects, located in New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria and South Australia, will provide a combined 4.2 GW of power and 16.1 GWh of energy capacity.

The award is expected to unlock around AUD 6 billion of private investment, deliver approximately AUD 343 million in economic benefits for regional communities and Australian industry, and create more than 6,800 jobs across construction, operations and maintenance. Community benefits total AUD 62 million, with AUD 52 million earmarked for using Australian‑made steel. The storage capacity will help supply electricity to over 3.7 million households during peak demand, improve grid reliability and reduce electricity costs.

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said the scheme turns Australia’s renewable resources into jobs and cheaper, more reliable power. The government has opened CIS Tender 10, seeking a further 4 GW/16 GWh of storage capacity, with bids due by 18 August 2026.