ACEN Australia bags gov’t approval for 900 MW Robbins Island wind project

This will benefit up to 500,000 homes.

ACEN Australia has secured Federal Government approval for its 900 megawatt (MW) Robbins Island Wind project.

According to the company, the $3b project is expected to generate enough power for up to 500,000 homes.

The project will help the state and federal governments reach legislated emissions commitments, including Tasmania's goal to double clean energy production by 2040.

The Robbins Island wind project is expected to start generating power in 2030.

The approval follows more than eight years of assessment by all levels of government, including detailed studies of Robbins Island's natural values.

ACEN Australia owns the 521 MW direct current (MWdc) New England Solar and 520 MWdc Stubbo Solar, two of the largest operating solar farms in the country. Its other projects in advanced development include the 780 MWdc Birriwa Solar and the 1,200 megawatt-hour (MWh) Storage Hybrid Project in New South Wales.

The company is also constructing its first battery project in the country, the New England Battery with 400 MWh scheduled to be operational before the end of 2026. Other battery projects are advancing in development, with potential new construction starts in the next 18 months.