Cbus Super takes stake in renewable energy operator

Cbus Super has announced it will take an equity stake in renewable energy generator, Atmos Renewables, via its existing partnership with investment manager, Igneo Infrastructure Partners.

The fund said the investment signals its commitment to supporting Australia’s energy transition and to providing members with a diversified portfolio of renewable energy assets.

The Igneo-owned renewable energy business currently has 18 renewable assets in operation or under construction, with projects in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia and Western Australia. The combined capacity of its assets totals 1.5 gigawatts, enough to power 775,000 homes.

“Atmos’ geographic diversity, long-term contracts and potential development pipeline make it a highly attractive investment,” Cbus Chief Investment Officer, Leigh Gavin, said.

“First and foremost, we believe this investment will stack up on returns, but also has the additional benefit of supporting a sustainable energy future for Australians.

“Atmos’ leadership in wind, solar, and now energy storage, under Igneo’s management, makes them ideal partners as we continue our commitment to renewable energy and support for Australia’s energy transition.

“As well as providing long-term investment returns, the investment supports Australia’s renewable energy industry, a sector that employs many Cbus members. And importantly our portfolio gains more exposure to Australia’s energy transition via a diverse range of renewable energy assets.”

The investment in Atmos joins Cbus’ existing $2.1 billion portfolio of renewables, with the newly-inked support to back two renewable energy developments:

• “The 100MW/400MWh Merredin Battery Energy Storage System (MBESS) in Western Australia, Atmos’ first greenfield development and battery project to reach financial close. This $220 million project is expected to create 70 jobs during construction. It will enhance regional grid stability and energy security, with operations expected to begin by mid-2027.
• “The full acquisition of the 316MW Hornsdale Wind Farm in South Australia, increasing Atmos’ stake from 23.4% to 100%, further strengthening its contracted income base.”