NSW Government Approves 450MW Goulburn River Solar Farm 

The New South Wales government has granted planning approval for the A$880 million Goulburn River Solar Farm, a landmark project in the state’s Upper Hunter region poised to make a significant contribution to Australia’s renewable energy transition. The development, located approximately 28 kilometers south of Merriwa, is being spearheaded by UK-based solar developer Lightsource bp.

Powering the Future After NSW Government Approves 450MW Goulburn River Solar Farm

Once operational, the 450-megawatt photovoltaic (PV) facility will generate an estimated 992,000 MWh of clean electricity each year. This output is sufficient to power approximately 191,000 homes and will displace around 733,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually. The project’s design includes the integration of a substantial battery energy storage system (BESS), initially sized at 49MW/562MWh, to enhance grid stability by storing solar energy and dispatching it during periods of high demand.

The farm’s strategic positioning between the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) and the Hunter-Central Coast REZ allows it to leverage existing transmission infrastructure, ensuring efficient delivery of power to the grid. The project also received federal environmental approval in October 2024, clearing a key hurdle for construction to commence.

Economic Investment Following NSW Government Approves 450MW Goulburn River Solar Farm

The Goulburn River Solar Farm represents a major capital investment in the Upper Hunter, projected to create 350 jobs during its construction and operational phases. A key focus will be placed on local procurement, engaging regional businesses and prioritizing the hiring of local workers. The project also includes commitments to community infrastructure upgrades, such as road improvements, based on local feedback.

NSW Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley, highlighted the project’s economic impact, stating, “The $880m project injects a major capital investment within the Upper Hunter region, bringing a major boost to local jobs. Today’s announcement further shores up our region as a renewable energy powerhouse that will power communities for decades to come.”

Paul Scully, NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, echoed this sentiment, adding, “Under our government, we have a planning system that is supporting the renewable energy transition, approving projects that will support our communities, energy security and emissions reductions… This project is one of many that is part of the state’s growing renewable energy infrastructure that plays a vital role in powering our economy for generations to come.”

Sources

1. Government approves Goulburn River Solar Farm in NSW
2. Goulburn River Solar Farm Archives – Global Transmission Report
3. Goulburn River Solar Farm and Battery – Infrastructure Pipeline
4. Goulburn River Solar Project, Australia – NS Energy
5. Media Releases – NSW Government
6. Australian greenlights 450MW solar PV project in New South Wales