The latest Capacity Investment Scheme (CIS) tender for 1.8GW of renewable generation has launched in Western Australia—this being the first to require participation in the federal government’s new Developer Rating Scheme (DRS).
The DRS is operated independently by Equifax, giving landholders and local communities greater transparency about the track record, capability and conduct of renewable energy developers, and transmission companies.
Related article: Renewable Energy Developer Rating Scheme launches
Accredited companies that meet minimum standards across all seven criteria can be listed on a public register and receive a community engagement star rating, giving communities better information about developers with strong performance and engagement practices. Going forward it will also be a pre-requisite in CIS tenders, for developers to have started the DRS assessment process.
Proponents must have commenced the DRS assessment process to apply for CIS Tender 11.
Consistent with previous WEM tenders, projects will be required to participate in Western Australia’s Reserve Capacity Mechanism, helping maintain a reliable electricity supply as more renewable energy enters the grid.
Tender 11 will also place a stronger emphasis on projects being ready and able to deliver, including their ability to attract financing.
Australian Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said, “Western Australia needs more power as its economy and population grow, and this tender will bring forward another 1.8 GW of new generation to help deliver it.
“We’re also lifting the bar for developers—if you want Commonwealth backing through this tender, you need to show you’re serious about working properly with communities and landholders.
“More renewable generation means more reliable supply and more competition, helping put downward pressure on power prices for WA households and businesses.”
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CIS Tender 11 registrations opened on 25 August, with bids opening on 27 August alongside the release of the tender guidelines.
