SYDNEY – 26 August 2025 – Equifax, the global data, analytics and technology company, has been named by the Albanese Government as the official provider of the new Australian-first Renewable Energy Developer Rating Scheme.
The scheme aims to assess large-scale renewable energy and transmission companies vying to develop projects on land across rural and regional areas, and will be designed and operated by Equifax Australasia Credit Ratings Pty Ltd in collaboration with the Government.
This approach is similar to that taken by Equifax in development of its Independent Construction Industry Ratings Tool (iCIRT), which was co-designed by Equifax in partnership with industry and government bodies, and is administered by Equifax Australasia Credit Ratings Pty Ltd. The iCIRT scheme currently oversees the building industry, where successful participants are listed on the public register whereas those that avoid the scrutiny or fail to meet the standards are not.
“The Renewable Energy Developer Rating Scheme aims to improve transparency and strengthen accountability in the renewable energy sector, and Equifax is a natural partner for the Government in bringing this vision to life,” said Brad Walters, General Manager, Commercial at Equifax.
“Our experience with iCIRT has shown us the pivotal role that ratings tools can play in building trust and transparency, with tangible results already apparent in the construction sector. Obtaining an iCIRT rating early has the potential to deliver significant benefits in terms of credibility, competitive advantage and brand value of rated players. We are confident that the Renewable Energy Developer Rating Scheme will deliver similar results as it is rolled out.”
A key component of this appointment is the development of a fit-for-purpose scorecard, which will assess large-scale renewable energy and transmission companies. This scorecard will be designed in close consultation with market stakeholders, including local, state, and territory governments, landholders, community organisations, and industry bodies, to ensure it objectively assesses developer integrity, governance, financial stability, and community engagement capability.
As part of the initial phase, Equifax will conduct a Proof of Concept (POC) assessment involving 10 prospective proponents, validating the scheme's methodology before its wider launch in March 2026. This pilot program, which includes 60 developers, will test the business performance and community engagement assessments.
“Equifax is proud to leverage our experience and market leadership in the ratings space to support the Renewable Energy Developer Rating Scheme,” Mr Walters said.
“This scheme will not only ensure that this important work is being done by trustworthy and capable developers, but also support local communities and Australia’s energy transition.”
From the media release distributed by THE HON CHRIS BOWEN MP Minister for Climate Change and Energy
Quotes attributable to Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen:
“Australian farmers and regional communities deserve straight answers and high standards.
"This independent rating scheme will shine a light on developer behaviour so landholders can make informed decisions and will ensure everyone lifts their game when it comes to working with communities.
“Good operators who engage early and respectfully will be recognised—and those who don’t will be required to lift their game. That’s how we build confidence and get the right projects in the right places. “Australia is in the middle of a renewable energy revolution and it’s crucial that we deliver more reliable renewable energy and a stable grid while working to reduce emissions in a fair way that delivers for the regions hosting this vital new infrastructure."
Quotes attributable to Australian Energy Infrastructure Commissioner Tony Mahar:
“I am encouraged that the Developer Rating Scheme has reached this milestone and look forward to a system that gives the community confidence that poor practices and behaviour relating to the energy transition is being weeded out as soon as possible.
“I will work closely with Equifax to ensure that the detail of the scheme delivers tangible benefits for the community about how the energy transition is progressed. “Providing a transparent and credible source of information is critical for local communities. Whilst the scheme is voluntary at this stage, we encourage all developers to participate and would question any that chose not to.”
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ABOUT EQUIFAX INC.
At Equifax (NYSE: EFX), we believe knowledge drives progress. As a global data, analytics, and technology company, we play an essential role in the global economy by helping financial institutions, companies, employers, and government agencies make critical decisions with greater confidence. Our unique blend of differentiated data, analytics, and cloud technology drives insights to power decisions to move people forward. Headquartered in Atlanta and supported by nearly 15,000 employees worldwide, Equifax operates or has investments in 24 countries in North America, Central and South America, Europe, and the Asia Pacific region. For more information, visit www.equifax.com.au or follow the company’s news on LinkedIn.
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