Eligible projects must be capable of dispatching at their registered capacity for at least eight hours and can connect to either new infrastructure in Renewable Energy Zones with Access Schemes or existing state-wide infrastructure. The selected projects are targeted to be operational by 2034, supporting NSW’s energy storage objectives of 2GW and 16GWh by 2030, and at least 28GWh by 2034.
Nevenka Codevelle, AEMO Services Executive General Manager, highlighted the momentum from prior tenders, stating: “Tender 5 was the most successful long duration energy storage tender to date. It demonstrates the strong market interest to invest in long duration storage projects and we’re excited to see more in Tender 6.” She further explained: “We want to see more short lead time projects that contribute to our 2030 minimum objective. With the recent addition of a new minimum objective of at least 28 GWh by 2034, we are now able to support projects with a longer lead time that will come online in the next decade.”
AEMO Services employs a two-stage evaluation process for the tender. The first stage assesses projects based on social license commitments, deliverability, grid impact, and proponent quality. The second stage evaluates the financial value to NSW electricity consumers, ensuring cost-effective solutions for the state.
Since the Roadmap’s inception, AEMO Services has facilitated projects delivering over 2.4GW of generation, 18GWh of long-duration energy storage, and nearly 3GWh of firming capacity to NSW’s grid. These efforts underscore the state’s commitment to enhancing energy security and transitioning to sustainable energy sources.
Project bids for Tender 6 must be submitted by June 10, 2025. Detailed information, including eligibility and merit criteria, is available on the AEMO Services website. This tender represents a key opportunity for developers to contribute to NSW’s ambitious energy storage goals, supporting a reliable and renewable-focused electricity grid.
