Windlab and Squadron Energy seek approval for solar and battery expansion in Queensland

Windlab and Squadron Energy have submitted a referral for federal environmental approval under the EPBC Act to expand the Bungaban renewable energy hub in Queensland. The proposal seeks to add a 500MW solar farm and a 500MW battery energy storage system (BESS) to the existing 1.4GW Bungaban wind farm project.

The project is being developed by Bungaban Hold Trusco Pty Ltd, a 50:50 joint venture between Federation Asset Management (which owns Windlab) and Squadron Energy. The expansion includes a transmission line connecting the new infrastructure to the proposed Warranna substation. Construction is slated to begin in July 2028, with an expected operational life extending to 2068.

The Bungaban wind farm has already secured a significant power purchase agreement with Rio Tinto, which will cover approximately 80% of the hub's energy output. This agreement is intended to support Rio Tinto’s Queensland aluminium and manufacturing operations as they transition away from coal-fired generation.