Mining heavyweight Rio Tinto has a deal with Australian firm Edify Energy to power its Gladstone smelters and refineries with renewable energy, securing jobs and slashing emissions.
The agreement includes a 600 MW solar farm and Queensland’s largest battery storage system (600MW/2,400MWh), ensuring reliable power for the energy-hungry Boyne Island aluminium smelter and Yarwun alumina refinery. Combined with existing wind and solar deals, 80% of the Boyne smelter’s electricity will soon come from renewables – cutting direct emissions by 70% (5.6 million tonnes annually).
Why It Matters
- Affordable, Clean Energy: The 20-year solar and battery pact locks in cheaper, greener power as fossil fuel costs rise.
- Jobs Secured: Gladstone’s 3,000+ workers gain long-term certainty, with construction starting late 2025.
- Global Competitiveness: Rio Tinto says renewables will keep Gladstone’s aluminium cost-competitive globally.
Rio Tinto Australia CEO Kellie Parker called the deal “integral” to securing affordable, low-carbon energy for decades. “This is about future-proofing our operations and jobs,” she said.
Industry Backing
ClimateWorks’ Dr. Tessa Leach praised the move as a “major step” toward clean industry in Gladstone, while Smart Energy Council CEO John Grimes said it reflects soaring global demand for decarbonised metals.
What’s Next?
- Solar farms and battery construction to begin late 2025, operational by 2028.
- Rio Tinto eyes further renewable investments for Gladstone.
This deal cements Gladstone’s shift from coal to clean energy – a win for workers, industry, and the climate.