Tasmania’s 200-Year Farming Dynasty Pivots To 1.2 GW Clean Energy Revolution With Gamuda

A quiet transformation is sweeping across Tasmania’s energy domain. The island state, long known for its pristine wilderness and agricultural heritage, is now pivoting toward an ambitious clean energy future. And one multi-generational farming family is leading the charge.

The partnership between Malaysian engineering powerhouse Gamuda and local Tasmanian landowners has birthed a massive 1.2 GW renewable energy portfolio. That’s not small potatoes. The collaboration includes the 250 MW Weasel solar farm with a chunky 144 MW / 576 MWh battery storage system.

East meets west as Gamuda and Tasmanian farmers unleash a 1.2 GW clean energy powerhouse – no small potatoes indeed.

And just nearby? The Cellars Hill project will add a 350 MW wind farm and an even bigger battery storage system. This aligns with Tasmania’s focus on expanding its wind generation, which already contributes 16% to the state’s electricity mix.

Tasmania isn’t messing around with its energy goals. The state has legislated a 200% Renewable Energy Target, aiming to generate 21,000 GWh by 2040. Double what they had in 2020. They’re not waiting around either, with a 150% interim target by 2030.

Hydro power, once the undisputed king of Tasmania’s electricity, has taken on a new role. It now supplies only 35.4% of local demand—a record low. Turns out, the old reliable hydro is becoming more like a giant battery, saving water for when prices spike or the system needs help. Smart move.

Meanwhile, TasNetworks is preparing for a renewable explosion. Wind capacity is set to more than triple from 308 MW to approximately 1,100 MW by 2025. Solar’s growing too, albeit more modestly.

The state isn’t just throwing money at big projects. They’ve established the Energy Saver Loan Scheme and the Business Energy Efficiency Scheme with up to $50 million in loans.

Even low-income households get support through rebates and assistance programs. Similar to South Africa’s renewable revolution, Tasmania is seeing dramatic cost reductions in wind and solar technology, making these projects increasingly attractive for investors.

Who would’ve thought? A farming dynasty partnering with international investors to transform Tasmania’s energy environment. The Downie and Bowden families are spearheading these landowner-led projects with a strong emphasis on community values. Old meets new. Agriculture meets renewables. It’s a transformation, happening right under our noses.