Renewable energy investment in Australia is facing a serious slowdown. Data from the Clean Energy Regulator shows only 2.5GW of industry-scale renewable projects are expected to reach final investment decisions this year, down from 4GW last year. This is the lowest 12-month investment average since early 2017. Experts warn that this drop is due to "deep structural issues," not just a temporary dip. Richie Merzian, CEO of the Clean Energy Investor Group, pointed to key problems like state planning delays, uncertainty over grid connections, transmission constraints, rising costs, and lack of long-term revenue security. The Australian government’s capacity investment scheme, designed to support solar, wind, and battery projects replacing old coal plants, has created a large project pipeline. Yet many projects have not secured final funding. Merzian said this shows "a system that is not functioning as intended." Despite the investment drop, renewable energy’s share of electricity has grown to over 40%. Nearly 7GW of large-scale and rooftop solar systems are expected to connect this year. However, the Climate Change Authority says Australia must double its growth in large renewable energy projects by 2030 to meet targets. Frankie Muskovic from the Investment Group on Climate Change called the low investment "a concerning trend". She believes more project support and an extension of the underwriting scheme beyond 2027 are vital to boost investor confidence. Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen highlighted that the government already has over 16GW of renewables under contract or negotiation, with more tenders planned. He expects about 11GW to reach financial close by 2026. Meanwhile, the Australian Energy Market Operator warned urgent investment in system security infrastructure, like synchronous condensers, is needed ahead of the planned closure of NSW’s Eraring coal plant in 2027. The clear message: Australia’s clean energy goals need faster investment and better planning to keep the green power dream alive.