Queensland is set to solidify its position as a leader in renewable energy with the commencement of construction on the Aldoga Solar Farm, a massive $500 million project located near Gladstone.
This initiative is part of the Queensland government’s commitment to increasing renewable energy supply, generating jobs, and supporting economic growth.
The Aldoga Solar Farm, situated about 20 kilometres northwest of Gladstone, will be a significant addition to the state’s renewable energy infrastructure.
Once completed, it will feature up to 820,000 solar modules and can produce 480 megawatts peak.
This project is strategically located within the Gladstone State Development Area on land owned by Economic Development Queensland (EDQ).
EDQ has signed a development lease with ACCIONA Energía, a leading renewable energy company, to bring this ambitious project to life.
QLD Premier Steven Miles stated: “On my first day as Premier, I announced that my government would lift Queensland’s ambition on climate action — and reduce our emission by 75 per cent by 2035 — to strengthen our economy and create jobs.
“Our target, along with the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan, gives big business the confidence that the Sunshine State is the best place to invest in renewables. This project will create hundreds of jobs for Central Queenslanders now and into the future.”
QLD Minister for State Development and Infrastructure Grace Grace highlighted the significance of the project, as she stated: “ACCIONA Energía is the largest 100 per cent renewable company in the world. It’s exciting to see an industry leader investing in Queensland and using the latest technology in solar to harness this clean energy source and deliver benefits for Queensland and beyond, with CQ-H2 to export renewable hydrogen to Japan and Singapore.”
The Aldoga Solar Farm is expected to offer $150 million in local procurement opportunities and provide up to 350 jobs during construction, with up to 10 ongoing full-time roles once operational.
Additionally, ACCIONA Energía’s community benefits program will provide $120,000 in annual funding to local initiatives, including scholarships with Central Queensland University, small grants, and legacy projects.
ACCIONA Energía Managing Director Brett Wickham said: “Our focus in Queensland is to keep building new electricity generation and creating new jobs within the state. Projects like Aldoga will help transition our energy system while providing the employment, training, and procurement opportunities regional communities are asking for so they can take advantage of this booming industry.”
Construction is already underway, with the facility expected to be operational by mid-2026 and to operate for 30 years.
The electricity produced at the Aldoga Solar Farm will be supplied to Stanwell Corporation’s proposed Central Queensland Hydrogen project (CQ-H2) under a Power Purchase Agreement.
CQ-H2 aims to deliver renewable hydrogen to Japan and Singapore, as well as supply large domestic customers in Central Queensland.
QLD Minister for Energy and Clean Economy Jobs Mick de Brenni stated: “[This] announcement is not only critical in delivering emissions reduction but importantly, supports bringing renewable manufacturing to Queensland.
With Queensland-built components and 350 local tradespeople involved in construction and commissioning, the Aldoga solar farm truly will be a product of the Sunshine State.”
The project is expected to be a game-changer for the region, as QLD Minister for Regional Development and Member for Gladstone Glenn Butcher noted: “We’ve always known Gladstone was crucial for energy production and industry in Queensland, now this project proves this region is well and truly driving the renewables sector here in Queensland.”
The Aldoga Solar Farm is poised to make a significant impact, not just in terms of renewable energy generation but also in job creation, economic growth, and community development, solidifying Queensland’s position as a leader in sustainable energy solutions.
