NSW approves 450 MW Goulburn River solar farm

The New South Wales (NSW) government has approved the Goulburn River solar farm, a 450 MW renewable energy project designed to supply electricity to 191,000 homes annually. Located near Merriwa in the Upper Hunter region, the A$880 million ($591 million) development includes a battery energy storage system (BESS) to improve grid stability by storing and releasing solar energy during peak demand.

Strategically positioned between two key Renewable Energy Zones, the solar farm will have direct access to the existing electricity transmission network. This project will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions in NSW by 733,000 tonnes per year, supporting the state’s net zero emissions goals.

Construction is expected to create 350 jobs, with a focus on hiring local workers and involving regional businesses. The project will also include infrastructure upgrades, such as roads and worker accommodations, in response to community feedback.