Renewable firms secure major solar‑battery projects in Australia and South Africa

Gamuda Renewables has acquired an interest in the Hazelwood North Solar Farm and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Victoria, Australia. The approved 450 MW hybrid project, spanning 1,100 ha, pairs solar generation with a 1,800 MWh (4‑hour) battery and is slated for construction in 2028 with commercial operation expected in 2030. The investment expands Gamuda’s Australian portfolio to three assets across the National Electricity Market.

Envision Energy signed a supply agreement for a 660 MWh BESS for South Africa’s Naos‑1 hybrid project, which will combine 300 MW of solar PV with battery storage near Viljoenskroon in the Free State province. The project aims to deliver reliable, dispatchable renewable electricity to large private customers and is positioned as South Africa’s largest privately contracted hybrid renewable project to reach financial close. Envision will also provide a 25‑year long‑term service agreement for the battery system.