Vena Energy has begun construction on the 320MW Wandoan South Solar 2 project in Queensland’s Western Downs region, Australia. This development follows the company’s existing Wandoan South Solar 1 project and is set to commence operations in mid-2027, producing approximately 700GWh of clean energy annually. This output can power around 120,000 Queensland households, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by about 568,000 tonnes and conserving 490 million liters of water yearly compared to traditional thermal energy generation.

The solar park is part of Vena Energy’s broader portfolio in Australia, which includes 732MW of renewable energy projects and 600MWh of battery storage capacity in various stages of operation, construction, or contracting. The Wandoan South Solar 2 project strengthens Vena’s commitment to expanding renewable energy infrastructure in the region.

Owen Sela, Head of Australia at Vena Energy, stated: “Wandoan South Solar 2 will play a crucial role in Queensland’s rapidly evolving energy landscape, adding significant renewable generation capacity that will help power the state’s future while supporting Australia’s commitment to net zero by 2050. The broader Wandoan South project has already delivered tangible economic and social benefits.”

The Wandoan South initiative includes Queensland’s first utility-scale 150MWh battery energy storage system, completed in 2022, and the 168MW Wandoan South Solar 1, operational since 2024. The new project builds on these achievements, enhancing Queensland’s clean energy capacity.

Vena Energy has secured a long-term power purchase agreement with CleanCo, a Queensland Government-backed low-emission energy retailer and generator. This agreement allows CleanCo to supply renewable energy from Wandoan South Solar 2 to major Queensland employers, supporting their sustainability goals and contributing to the state’s clean energy objectives.

Tom Metcalfe, CleanCo’s chief executive, said: “We are proud to join with Vena Energy on Wandoan South Solar 2, helping to bring this exciting project to life. With construction now getting underway, the solar farm will soon be delivering real benefits for the Western Downs and beyond. CleanCo is uniquely positioned as the state’s only pumped hydro operator to store the energy from this project during the day and deliver it to Queenslanders when it’s needed the most during early evening and overnight. We are backing an energy future that is affordable, reliable and sustainable, delivering long-term value to customers and communities across the state.”

The project is expected to employ up to 400 workers during peak construction, offering opportunities for local and First Nations communities. By adding significant renewable energy capacity, Wandoan South Solar 2 supports Queensland’s transition to a sustainable energy future while fostering economic and social benefits in the Western Downs region.