ACEN powers Aussie homes with 520-MW solar

A local Filipino energy company is exporting its expertise abroad, developing large-scale renewable projects that now provide clean electricity to homes halfway across the world.

ACEN Australia’s 520-megawatt (MW) Stubbo Solar in New South Wales, Australia has begun supplying clean electricity to power 185,000 Australian households.

The Ayala-backed energy developer said Tuesday that the project, developed ahead of the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone and the first solar generator supported by a Long-Term Energy Service Agreement, is now one of the largest solar projects ever built in the country.

“Stubbo Solar reinforces ACEN’s long-term commitment to Australia’s clean energy future. This milestone highlights how clear policy and strong partnerships can unlock large-scale renewable investments. 

It also reflects the dedication of our ACEN Australia team and partners whose collaboration and hard work turned this project into a powerful example of what’s possible in the energy transition,” ACEN Australia Executive Chairman Jose Maria Zabaleta said.

Built with support from PCL Construction as EPC contractor and Lumea for grid connection, Stubbo Solar also includes provision for a 200 MW or 800 megawatt-hour battery energy storage system, ensuring reliable clean energy delivery. 

The project is also the first large-scale solar facility certified for full circularity under the Circular PV Alliance framework.

ACEN Australia Managing Director David Pollington said the project began as a single-site concept and has grown into one of the region’s largest renewable energy investments, built through partnership and strategic adaptation. 

He added that as market conditions change, close collaboration between government and industry will be crucial to maintain policies that support new investments.

During construction, ACEN Australia invested nearly AUD85 million in the NSW economy, including AUD60 million for local contracts, jobs, and procurement. The company also contributed AUD3.2 million to First Nations businesses and over AUD400,000 to community initiatives.

Located about 10 km north of Gulgong, Stubbo Solar positions ACEN Australia to play a major role in the state’s energy transition, with a long-term plan for more than 3 gigawatts (GW) of fully permitted projects and a 10 GW development pipeline spanning wind, solar, battery, and pumped-hydro technologies.