The South Australian government has opened an area of more than 11,000 square kilometres of land for the potential development of large-scale renewable energy projects.
The area, twice the size of Kangaroo Island, is the first to be offered under the state’s Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Act 2023.
Investors are now invited to bid for renewable energy feasibility licences across two prime regions; the Gawler Ranges East on the Upper Eyre Peninsula, and Whyalla West in the Upper Spencer Gulf.
The two release areas are noted for having some of the highest co-incident wind and solar resources in South Australia. Initial estimates suggest the land could host projects capable of powering more than 500,000 homes.
The Gawler Ranges East release area comprises approximately 5,200 square kilometres, while the Whyalla West release spans around 6,500 square kilometres.
The tender process is technology-neutral, meaning applicants are encouraged to propose innovative ways to optimise the land and its natural resources, whether through wind, solar, or hydrogen production.
This release marks a significant milestone for the Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Act, an Australian-first legal framework designed to streamline the development of pastoral land, Crown land, and state waters. The Act aims to ensure that massive infrastructure projects can co-exist with existing land uses while supporting regional development.
Ministerial guidelines require that tenders address strict criteria, including environmental management credentials, project delivery timeframes, and clear benefits for the state.
The Department for Energy and Mining (DEM) confirmed that the release areas were finalised following extensive consultation with pastoralists, regional communities, and traditional custodians.
A key component of the 13-week tender period is the requirement for applicants to engage directly with native title holders to secure agreements.
The call for tenders is open until June 28, providing a three-month window for global and local investors to prepare bids that balance commercial ambition with environmental and cultural safeguards.
