In Short : In order to better support long-duration energy storage, which is essential for integrating increasing levels of solar and wind power and hastening the nation’s transition to renewable energy, the Australian government redesigned its Capacity Investment Scheme (CIS). These improvements strengthen the plan’s potential to provide dispatchable grid stability and clean energy.
What’s New?
In order to help Australia reach its objective of 82% renewable electricity by 2030, the CIS, which offers guaranteed financial assistance for renewable generating and storage, has been extended to target 40 GW of new capacity, including both solar/wind and dispatchable energy like battery storage. In order to shorten the time to contract and increase market responsiveness to clean investment opportunities, the tender process was simplified into a single-stage auction in June 2025.
Effects on Strategy
Promoting long-duration storage deployment, a key factor in increasing the penetration of renewable energy, guarantees grid stability and a cleaner power supply going forward. These changes improve communication about sustainability and create new storylines for PR efforts that highlight Australia’s climate leadership. CIS is positioned as an engaging backdrop for digital marketing content, demonstrating commitment and movement towards a low-emissions economy, thanks to the expanded scheme and quicker tender implementation.
Results and Momentum
Australia witnessed a $2.4 billion spike in huge battery investment in Q1 2025, with six significant projects totaling 1.5 GW of storage capacity. Much of this expansion was supported by the CIS. The renewable energy transition is being actively supported by these investments, which are assisting in the onlineing of systems like Victoria’s 350 MW Wooreen BESS and others in South Australia and NSW.
A Quick Look
CIS Growth up to 40 GW (dispatchable capacity of 17 GW plus 23 GW of renewable energy).
Reforms to Tenders Midway through 2025, a one-stage auction method was introduced.
Snapshots of Investments In Q1 2025, $2.4 billion will be invested in BESS projects, with 1.5 GW pledged.
Effects on Sectors accelerates the development of sustainable energy infrastructure through grid support communications and storage PR and digital marketing perspectives on policy, innovation, and dependability
With this policy change, Australia is accelerating the deployment of renewable energy and storage infrastructure while strengthening its national clean energy plan. If you would want this to be turned into a campaign-ready piece, infographic, press release, or stakeholder brief, please let me know!
