Aula Energy Takes First Step into Wind Power with $740 Million Project

Aula Energy, a fresh venture from Macquarie, is set to make its debut in wind energy with its first-ever project. After finalizing financial arrangements, Aula will partner with Queensland’s CS Energy to develop the Boulder Creek wind farm, a $740 million initiative. Located about 40 kilometers southwest of Rockhampton, the 228 MW farm will be built on land that will continue to support cattle grazing.

Launched in late 2023, Aula Energy has a vision to build 4 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy projects, including wind, solar, and battery storage, across Australia. Western Australia is a key area of focus, although the company aims to expand nationwide. Aula joins a growing family of Macquarie’s renewable offshoots, including Corio, specializing in offshore wind, and Eku Energy, focused on battery storage.

As part of this partnership, CS Energy will purchase all of Boulder Creek’s electricity output for at least 20 years after the wind farm becomes fully operational in 2027. This long-term deal strengthens CS Energy's renewable portfolio, following their recent acquisition of the Lotus Creek wind farm near St Lawrence. CS Energy is aligning its efforts to meet the increasing demand for clean energy from its large commercial and industrial clients.

With the financial close, Aula Energy can now begin construction. "This project is a significant achievement for us and a strong validation of our team’s expertise,” said Aula Energy CEO Chad Hymas. Meanwhile, CS Energy’s CEO Darren Busine highlighted the importance of the project in helping Queensland transition to renewables. CS Energy is also looking at ways to provide training opportunities for employees at the nearby Callide power station, offering potential roles in wind farm maintenance.

Top industry players are coming together to make this wind farm a reality. GE Vernova will supply the turbines, while RES will oversee construction, DT Infrastructure will handle the plant balance, and Powerlink will manage the grid connection. Financing for this project has been secured through major banks, including CBA, NAB, ANZ, and ING, showing solid backing from financial institutions.

The Boulder Creek wind farm will be built on the traditional lands of the Gaangalu Nation and Darumbal peoples. Aula Energy has obtained all necessary government approvals and agreements with landholders and First Nations communities. The project will coexist with cattle grazing, demonstrating that renewable energy can harmonize with existing land uses while supporting local economies.

Aula Energy’s ambitions don’t stop at Boulder Creek. The company has identified 2.4 GW of potential projects in Western Australia and is also working on a 270 MW wind farm in South Australia, which will include battery storage. These ventures reflect Aula’s commitment to driving large-scale renewable energy solutions across Australia, paving the way for a sustainable energy future.

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