This ambitious project, the first project of this type in Australia is presently in the approval phase. The Djandori multi-billion-dollar project will have Indigenous stakeholders in direct share ownership.
Michael Myer, Chairman of Sunshine Hydro, remarked, “This historic agreement provides for the inclusion of our First Nations partners in both the development and future operation of this pioneering initiative.”
“Our engagement with FNGEG began several months ago when they sought a lasting interest in the project. With today’s agreement, their foresight has come to fruition.”
He further emphasized, “We’re working on Aboriginal land, and it was imperative for us as entrepreneurs to stand side by side with entrepreneurs of First Nations people.”
Tony and Ashley Martens have established First Nations Greentime Energy Group and they are now significant stakeholders in the project. Their association is particularly significant as they are currently facilitating First Nations engagement at the Genex Kidston pumped hydro project in Far North Queensland.
Echoing this sentiment, Tony Martens, a director of FNGEG, shared, “Historically, Indigenous participation in resource ventures has been limited to cultural heritage clearances, jobs, training, and royalties. Our ambition is to move beyond this by playing an active role in protecting the environment, ownership for our people and creating
generational wealth.”
“Our partnership with Sunshine Hydro enables us to work together to produce green energy and protect our country for future generations This venture marks a bold step towards reimagining the role of Indigenous Australians in
our nation’s clean energy transition.”
Upon completion, the Djandori Gung-i project will include a 600 MW pumped hydro station and a 300 MW facility for electrolysis, liquefaction, and green methanol production, powered by an expansive 1.8 GW renewable energy network of wind and solar assets across the state.
This collaborative effort paves the way for a new era where renewable energy developments actively incorporate First Nations participation in ownership roles, signalling a transformative approach to stakeholder engagement in such projects.
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