Top Notable Renewable Energy Companies in Australia (as of February 20, 2024)
Defining the "top" renewable energy companies is subjective and depends on factors like installed capacity, project diversity, geographical reach, or technological innovation. However, here are 10 notable companies leading the charge in Australia's renewable energy transition:
Solar Energy:
- Origin Energy: Leading energy retailer with significant commitment to renewables, including large-scale solar farms and battery storage projects.
- CSIRO Energy: Australia's national science agency, conducting cutting-edge research and development in solar technologies.
- Suncorp Group: Financial services company investing heavily in solar farms and community initiatives.
- ZENER Group: Global renewable energy developer and operator with several solar projects in Australia.
- Canadian Solar Inc.: Global solar panel manufacturer with a significant presence in Australia.
Wind Energy:
- ACEN Australia: Subsidiary of Philippines-based ACEN Corporation, focusing on wind and solar development in Australia.
- Goldwind Australia: Subsidiary of Chinese wind turbine manufacturer Goldwind, supplying turbines for wind farms across Australia.
- Vestas Australia: Subsidiary of Danish wind turbine manufacturer Vestas, another major player in the Australian wind energy market.
Other Renewables:
- GreenCollar: Leading renewable energy developer and operator, involved in wind, solar, and battery storage projects.
- Fortescue Future Industries: Subsidiary of mining giant Fortescue Metals Group, focusing on developing green hydrogen and renewable energy technologies.
Remember: This list is not exhaustive, and the landscape of Australia's renewable energy sector is constantly evolving. Consider your specific needs and priorities when choosing a renewable energy solution.
Projects of Australia's Top Renewable Energy Companies
Here's a summary of some notable projects undertaken by the companies mentioned:
Solar Energy:
- Origin Energy:
- Yarrabee Solar Farm (NSW): Up to 900MW capacity, first stage 450MW expected soon.
- Clare Solar Farm (QLD): 100MW operational since 2018.
- Darling Downs Solar Farm (QLD): 110MW planned next to existing gas-fired power station.
- CSIRO Energy:
- Sunshot Initiative: Researching cost-effective and efficient solar technologies.
- Ultra-lightweight silicon solar cells: Aiming for lower production costs and higher efficiency.
- Suncorp Group:
- Community Power Hubs: Supporting community-owned solar projects in regional areas.
- Brigalow Solar Farm (QLD): 139MW operational since 2020.
- ZENER Group:
- Yarranlea Solar Farm (QLD): 132MW operational since 2018.
- Mount Gairdner Solar Farm (SA): 150MW under development.
- Canadian Solar Inc.:
- Supplying solar panels for various projects across Australia.
Wind Energy:
- ACEN Australia:
- New England Wind Farm (NSW): 330MW operational since 2018.
- Cooper Creek Wind Farm (QLD): 432MW under development.
- Goldwind Australia:
- Silverton Wind Farm (NSW): 200MW operational since 2018.
- Gingin Wind Farm Stage 3 (WA): 132MW under development.
- Vestas Australia:
- Coopers Gap Wind Farm (QLD): 450MW operational since 2020.
- Stockyard Hill Wind Farm (VIC): 530MW under development.
Other Renewables:
- GreenCollar:
- Kennedy Wind Farm (QLD): 82MW operational since 2018.
- Gannawarra Solar Farm (VIC): 50MW operational since 2019.
- Battery storage projects across Australia.
- Fortescue Future Industries:
- Green Hydrogen Gladstone Manufacturing Facility (QLD): World's largest electrolyzer project (under development).
- Fortescue Island Green Hydrogen Project (WA): Feasibility study underway.
Disclaimer: This is not an exhaustive list, and information may change over time. It's recommended to visit the company websites or reliable news sources for the latest updates and details on specific projects.