The Australian Government, via an Approach to Market (ATM), is inviting submissions for a feasibility study on transitioning to lower emissions electricity systems in the Indian Ocean Territories (IOT) — Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands. This initiative is led by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts (DITRDCA) in line with Australia’s commitment to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
DITRDCA is seeking a suitably qualified supplier to deliver a comprehensive Feasibility Study that includes analysis, design, and recommendations to support the decarbonisation of the IOT’s electricity supply. Diesel generators currently provide 95% of electricity in these regions, with only limited contribution from distributed rooftop solar. The government aims to explore sustainable alternatives to enhance energy security, environmental outcomes, and operational efficiency in these remote communities.
The successful supplier will produce one consolidated report with three parts:
- A whole-of-IOT feasibility study, assessing the economic, technical, social, and environmental viability of transitioning to low-emission systems.
- A detailed system design proposal for the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, including energy generation mix, infrastructure requirements, site selection, equipment specs, and cost estimates.
- A detailed system design proposal for Christmas Island, following the same analysis as for the Cocos Islands.
Suppliers will be required to undertake field work on both islands and provide fortnightly progress updates, participate in stakeholder consultations, and deliver draft and final reports between 28 May 2025 and 27 February 2026.
There will be an online industry briefing on Monday 14 April 2025 at 3:00 PM (ACT local time). Interested suppliers must register by Friday 11 April at 3:00 PM and complete a confidentiality agreement prior to attending.
The closing time and date for responses will remain open until the 13th of May 2025.
If you are after further advice on this topic or any tender opportunity, feel free to contact us. You can also subscribe to this newsletter for regular weekly updates.
