Clean energy investment surges, Australian energy security strengthens

Renewable energy investment performed exceptionally well in a tough economic environment, strengthening Australia’s energy security and helping deliver a more reliable and affordable electricity system.  

The Bi-annual investment report: Large-scale renewable generation and storage (January-June 2026), released today, found that 12 generation projects totalling 2.6 GW of new capacity reached a final investment decision (FID) in H1 2026, exceeding the 2.3 GW recorded across all of 2025, led predominantly by solar farms and hybrid solar-and-battery projects.

Nine utility-scale batteries, worth $4.3 billion and representing 2.3 GW / 7.1 GWh of storage capacity, were also switched on, surpassing the 2 GW / 5.1 GWh added during 2025.

CEC Chief Executive, Jackie Trad, said the results show the resilience and growth of the clean energy industry in the face of difficult headwinds.

“Australian sun and wind cannot be cut off by conflict overseas. Each new solar, wind and battery investment helps make Australia more energy independent and economically resilient, shielding Australians from global fossil fuel price shocks and supply disruptions,” she said.

“An increase in renewable generation and storage is already putting downward pressure on power prices, with wholesale electricity prices averaging $74 per megawatt-hour in the June quarter, down nearly 50 per cent on the same period in 2025.”

Five generation projects totalling 1.4 GW of new capacity and worth more than $2.8 billion were commissioned during the first half of the year, including the 756 MW first stage of Victoria's Golden Plains Wind Farm, with the first stage to produce enough capacity to power over 400,000 homes.

Queensland leads the nation in clean energy investment in this report, accounting for $9.6 billion and 4.5 GW in projects that are currently at financial close or are under construction. New South Wales, meanwhile, has the largest battery storage pipeline at 4.3 GW / 11.2 GWh.

“Queensland is leading the nation in clean energy investment, showing what can be achieved when world-class renewable energy resources are matched with investor confidence,” Ms Trad said.

“But the story is bigger than any one state or territory; across Australia, investors are backing the technologies they know will power our economic future and strengthen our energy security.

“With $32.5 billion worth of generation and storage projects now under construction or at financial close, maintaining this momentum will require predictable approvals, timely transmission and long-term revenue certainty to help more projects, including onshore wind, progress into operation.

“Australian-made clean energy will not only deliver more affordable, reliable electricity for households and businesses, but also tens of thousands of jobs and billions of dollars in investment and economic activity, particularly in regional Australia,” she said.

ENDS

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact: 

Liam Straughan
Clean Energy Council Media Officer

+61 409 470 683