The New South Wales (NSW) government in Australia has given the green light to the 450MW Goulburn River solar farm, a major renewable energy initiative.
Lightsource BP to Construct the 450-MW Solar Park
Lightsource bp, a UK-based solar developer partly owned by BP Plc has secured approval from the New South Wales government to construct a 450-MW solar park with battery storage in the state.
Solar park with battery storage
The solar farm will be paired with a battery energy storage system (BESS) to store surplus electricity and supply it back to the grid during peak demand times improving grid stability and energy security. The project is situated between the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) and the Hunter-Central Coast REZ with direct access to the existing electricity transmission network.
Goulburn Solar Project to Power 191,000 Homes
The new photovoltaic (PV) complex is set to be installed near Goulburn in the Upper Hunter region of New South Wales. This facility is projected to generate 992,000 MWh of electricity annually to meet the energy needs of 191,000 homes. Additionally, the operation is expected to offset approximately 733,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions each year contributing to the state’s goal of achieving net zero emissions.
Construction to Create 350 Jobs, Prioritizing Local Hiring
The construction phase is expected to generate 350 jobs, prioritizing the hiring of local workers and the involvement of regional businesses. The development will also feature additional infrastructure such as road improvements and worker accommodations in response to community input.
“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. With 350 jobs generated during construction and operation, this project will benefit the local economy, communities and provide indirect benefits to local services throughout the life of the project. 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.” Paul Scully, New South Wales Minister for Planning and Public Spaces.
“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,” said Yasmin Catley, New South Wales minister for the Hunter region.