Important: This page is an independent reference summary. Verify classification decisions against the official ABS source before using them for tax, licensing, immigration or compliance purposes.

What this class covers

ANZSIC class 2619 covers businesses engaged in electricity generation from renewable and alternative energy sources in Australia. This classification specifically focuses on generation methods that don't rely on fossil fuels, representing the growing renewable energy sector. Operations typically involve converting natural energy sources into electrical power for distribution through the national grid or local networks.

This classification applies to both large-scale commercial operations and smaller distributed generation facilities. Examples include wind farms with multiple turbines generating power for the grid, solar farms with extensive photovoltaic arrays, tidal energy installations harnessing ocean currents, geothermal plants using underground heat, and biomass facilities converting organic waste materials into electricity. The common thread is electricity production without combustion of coal, gas, or oil products.

Businesses in this class are typically subject to regulation by the Australian Energy Regulator and may participate in renewable energy certificate schemes. The classification helps government agencies track investment and capacity in renewable generation alongside traditional power sources.

Primary activities in plain English

This class includes businesses primarily engaged in:

  • Operating wind farms with multiple turbines that generate electricity from wind power
  • Running large-scale solar power stations using photovoltaic panels or solar thermal systems
  • Generating electricity from tidal movements using underwater turbines or barrage systems
  • Producing power from geothermal sources by harnessing underground heat
  • Converting biomass materials (such as agricultural waste, wood waste, or biogas) into electricity through combustion or digestion processes
  • Other electricity generation methods not covered elsewhere in the classification system

Exclusions and nearby codes

This class specifically excludes electricity generation using fossil fuels. Operations that generate electricity from coal, natural gas, oil, or products derived from these mineral fuels are classified under ANZSIC 2611: Fossil Fuel Electricity Generation.

The distinction is important because biomass generation in class 2619 refers specifically to organic materials like agricultural residues, wood waste, or biogas from organic decomposition. If biomass generation involves mineral or fossil fuel products, it belongs in class 2611 instead.

This class sits within the broader Group 261 (Electricity Generation), which includes all forms of electricity production regardless of energy source. The subdivision level (26 Electricity Supply) also includes electricity transmission, distribution, and retail activities.

Practical guidance

When registering your business with the Australian Business Register, selecting the correct ANZSIC classification helps ensure you're categorized appropriately for industry reporting and potential renewable energy incentives. The Business Industry Code (BIC) 26190 corresponds directly to this ANZSIC class.

For tax purposes, businesses in this classification should be aware of specific deductions and incentives available for renewable energy investment, including the instant asset write-off for eligible assets and various state-based renewable energy schemes. Keep detailed records of energy production and certificate creation if participating in schemes like the Renewable Energy Target.

Workers' compensation classifications may vary by state, but operations typically fall under electricity supply categories with specific risk assessments for each generation method. Safety regulations apply particularly to high-voltage equipment, height work (wind turbines), and specialized environments like tidal or geothermal sites.

Businesses in this sector should monitor updates from the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) and Clean Energy Regulator regarding reporting requirements, grid connection standards, and renewable energy certificate schemes that may affect operations.