Australian company APA Group has awarded CIMIC Group company UGL the contract to engineer, procure, construct and commission the Sybella Creek Solar Farm and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project in Mount Isa, Queensland.

The project will include a 72MW solar farm and a 52MW/104MWh BESS facility, with site works expected to begin in late 2026 and completion scheduled for mid-2028.

The investment forms part of APA Group’s plans to expand renewable energy infrastructure in Queensland’s North West Minerals Province.

APA Group reached a final investment decision last month to construct, own and operate the Sybella Creek Solar Farm and BESS in the region.

The total investment will amount to A$259m ($184m). This is backed by an Energy Supply Agreement with Ernest Henry Mining, a subsidiary of Evolution Mining, lasting until mid-2046.

The Sybella Creek project is intended to support energy needs for regional mining operations, including Ernest Henry’s site. It aims to provide a lower-emissions and more reliable electricity supply for the area.

CIMIC Group CEO Jason Spears said: “UGL continues to demonstrate its leadership in the delivery of renewable energy generation and storage infrastructure across Australia.

“This project will support energy security and economic growth in North Queensland while contributing to Australia's energy transition.”

Once completed, the Sybella Creek Solar Farm and BESS are projected to supply renewable energy to Mount Isa and the surrounding area by 2028.

The projects will be sited on Kalkadoon Traditional Owner freehold land and are expected to meet APA’s established return hurdles.

APA has stated the funding will come from its existing balance sheet and forms part of its approximately $3.5bn organic growth pipeline.

UGL managing director Sam Goldsmith said: “UGL's strong relationship with APA Group has been established through the successful delivery of projects including APA’s Dugald River Solar Farm and the Port Hedland Battery Energy Storage System.

“We are proud to continue supporting clients with the delivery of critical energy infrastructure that will help power Australia's future.”

In August 2026, Vocus selected UGL as its development partner for the initial stage of a national fibre project connecting Sydney and Melbourne.