Allens has advised Yindjibarndi Energy Corporation on the project financing and associated land matters of Stage 1 of the Jinbi Solar Project in the Pilbara region of Western Australia.
Yindjibarndi Energy Corporation is one of Australia's largest Indigenous-led renewable energy initiatives. Formed in 2023, it is a joint partnership between Yindjibarndi Aboriginal Corporation (YAC) and international renewable energy company ACEN Corporation.
The Jinbi Solar Project represents one of the first major renewable energy projects led by a First Nations community in Australia. The Stage 1 financing underpins the development of the project and supports its progression toward delivery.
Allens advised on all aspects of the project financing, including negotiation and documentation of the financing arrangements, and provided advice on land tenure matters relating to the project.
Craig Ricato, Chief Executive Officer of Yindjibarndi Energy Corporation, said: ‘Reaching financial close on Jinbi demonstrates the strength of the project and the framework supporting it. Allens’ advice on financing and land matters has helped ensure the project is structured in a way that supports long-term success and delivery.’
‘This transaction represents an important step in the evolution of Australia’s clean energy sector, demonstrating how project financing can be structured to support community‑owned developers and increase First Nations participation in renewable energy,' said lead partner Scott McCoy.
'We are seeing growing collaboration between traditional owners, government and private sector participants to deliver large‑scale infrastructure, particularly in the energy transition space.'
The transaction is a significant milestone for Yindjibarndi Energy Corporation and reflects broader momentum in renewable energy development across Western Australia.
Allens continues to advise sponsors, developers, government and First Nations organisations on complex renewable energy and infrastructure projects, supporting clients across project financing, land access and long‑term development frameworks.
Allens legal team
Finance, Banking & Debt Capital
Scott McCoy (lead Partner)
M&A and Capital Markets
Harry Beardall (Managing Associate), Andrew Wong (Mergers & Acquisitions Counsel)
Real Estate
Michael Graves (Partner), Alexandra Tie (Senior Associate)
Projects
Eve Lynch (Partner), Andrew Mansour (Partner), Darcy Doyle (Managing Associate), Fiona Potter (Managing Associate), Flynn O'Byrne Inglis (Senior Associate), Lauren Canceri (Senior Associate), Ethna Caulfield (Senior Associate)
Competition, Consumer & Regulatory
Jessica Jane (Senior Associate)