Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners plans to have the Gawara Baya green energy project in North Queensland fully operational in 2030 after acquiring it from Windlab.

With all major approvals received, the global fund manager has made a final investment decision and reached financial close, securing a $1.7 billion facility through 10 banks.

CIP said Gawara Baya was expected to inject more than $200 million into the regional Queensland economy through local employment, procurement, and supply chain participation, creating up to 500 direct and indirect jobs.

Formerly known as the Upper Burdekin Wind Farm, Gawara Baya is a hybrid project, combining a 408MW onshore wind farm with 104MW of BESS.

Located 65km south-west of Ingham, the project has secured long-term energy offtake arrangements, including agreements with Stanwell and SmartestEnergy.

It is also the largest east coast wind farm to reach financial close under the Australian Government’s Capacity Investment Scheme.

“Gawara Baya is an important addition to our Australian portfolio,” CIP partner Yi-Hua Lu said.

“The Gawara Baya project represents a significant long-term investment in Queensland, supporting regional jobs, infrastructure development, and the reliable energy supply needed to underpin the state’s continued economic growth.

“We look forward to working alongside our project partners, the Gugu Badhun People, and local communities as the project now moves into construction.”

Windlab chief executive officer John Martin said reaching financial close was the culmination of years of responsible development.

“Throughout development, our focus has been on doing things the right way, creating a project that respects Country, works with landholders and delivers lasting benefits for local communities,” he said.

“That commitment has shaped every part of the project, from our relationship with the Gugu Badhun People through to Australia’s first renewable energy biodiversity net-gain strategy. These initiatives reflect our belief that renewable energy projects should leave a positive legacy, not just generate electricity.”

Local communities are also set to benefit through a $200,000 annual Community Benefit Fund to support community-led initiatives across the Hinchinbrook and Charters Towers local government areas.