South Australia Courts Global Investors with Massive Land Release for New Energy Projects
The race to build Australia’s next wave of large-scale renewable energy projects has intensified, with the South Australian government this week launching an international call for investors to develop more than 11,000 square kilometres of prime land. The move is the first major release under the state’s pioneering Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Act 2023 and signals a significant acceleration of its ambition to achieve 100% net renewable electricity by 2027.
Global and local developers are now invited to bid for renewable energy feasibility licences across two newly designated zones: the Gawler Ranges East on the Upper Eyre Peninsula (approx. 5,200 sq km) and Whyalla West in the Upper Spencer Gulf (approx. 6,500 sq km).
According to the Department for Energy and Mining (DEM), these areas have been selected for their high-quality, co-incident wind and solar resources, making them ideal for hybrid generation projects. Initial government estimates suggest that projects developed across these zones could generate enough clean electricity to power more than half a million homes.
A Streamlined Path to Development
The land release is a critical test for the state’s new regulatory framework, which aims to provide a clear and structured pathway for developing large-scale projects on government-owned pastoral and Crown land. The Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Act was designed to streamline approvals and ensure that massive infrastructure projects can co-exist with existing land uses, including pastoral operations and native title rights.
“Tenders must address the prescribed criteria in their application, including how they plan to deliver the content within a timeframe, their experience, environmental management credentials, and how the project will benefit the state and the traditional custodians of the land,” the DEM stated.
The tender process is technology-neutral, allowing bidders to propose a mix of wind, solar, and energy storage solutions like large-scale batteries. This flexibility is designed to encourage innovative proposals that optimise the use of the land and its world-class renewable resources.
Securing South Australia’s Renewable Future
This announcement solidifies South Australia’s position at the forefront of Australia’s energy transition. The state already averages 75% net variable renewable energy annually and frequently achieves periods of 100% instantaneous renewable generation, driven by its extensive network of wind farms, solar farms, and rooftop solar installations.
However, reaching the ambitious target of 100% net renewables by the end of 2027 requires a new portfolio of large-scale generation and storage projects. This land release is the government’s primary strategy to attract the multi-billion dollar investment required to build them.
Prospective developers have until June 28, 2026, to prepare and submit their proposals. A key requirement during this 13-week period is for applicants to actively engage with native title holders to secure formal agreements, ensuring local and First Nations communities are central to the state’s green energy boom.
The international tender is a clear signal that South Australia is not just participating in the energy transition but is actively competing on the global stage to attract the capital and expertise needed to become a world-leading renewable energy hub.