In a remarkable feat of engineering and collaboration, Spanish renewable energy developer Acciona Energía has completed the 380 MW Aldoga Solar Farm near Gladstone, Queensland, seven months ahead of schedule. Initiated in early 2024, the US$320 million project began exporting its first 850 kW of clean electricity into Australia’s National Electricity Market (NEM) as part of its commissioning phase, which is expected to conclude by the end of 2025. Acciona’s Managing Director, Brett Wickham, credited the swift completion to the dedication of the 350 workers involved. He emphasized the project’s role in delivering afordable and sustainable energy to the grid.
Also Read Australian Firm Glaass Wins Subcontract in $5 Billion Trojena Dams Project
The Aldoga Solar Farm comprises approximately 820,000 solar modules and stands out for its commitment to local industry. Acciona partnered with global solar equipment provider Nextracker and Australian manufacturer Orrcon Steel to incorporae locally produced steel components. This marked a significant step toward establishing a domestic supply chain for solar farms. This collaboration not only supports the Australian manufacturing sector but also enhances the project’s sustainability credentials.
Project Overview
Location: Gladstone, Queensland, Australia
Project capacity: 380 MW
Solar modules: 820,000
Developers: Acciona Energía
Who will purchase the energy?
Under a 15-year power purchase agreement, 100% of the electricity generated by the Aldoga Solar Farm will be supplied to Queensland government-owned energy company Stanwell Corporation . Stanwell CEO Michael O’Rourke highlighted this milestone as a significant advancement in the utility’s efforts to expand its renewable energy portfolio. The energy produced will be sold into the spot market or retailed to commercial and industrial customers. This will ensure a reliable and sustainable energy supply for the futur.
Also Read China, Saudi, Oman Partner for 2 GW Sadawi Solar Project and Wind Project
The successful completion of the Aldoga Solar Farm aligns with Stanwell’s broader strategy to achieve 9 to 10 GW of renewable energy generation and 5 GW of firming capacity by 2035 . This project contributes to Queensland’s renewableenergy targets. Additionally, it demonstrates the potential of international and local partnerships in accelerating the transition to clean energy. Acciona’s commitment to integrating local resources and expertise sets a precedent for future renewable projects in the region.
Also Read Umoja subsea cable: The First Subsea Cable to Directly Connect Africa with Australia
