Author: PPD Team Date: 18/12/2024
Lightsource bp has commenced construction on its Goulburn River hybrid solar project and Woolooga battery energy storage system (BESS) in New South Wales and Queensland, Australia, respectively. These projects integrate solar power with battery storage to provide reliable renewable energy solutions.
The Goulburn River solar farm, with a capacity of 585 MW, will generate 1.3 terawatt-hours of renewable energy annually, enough to power 225,000 homes and reduce carbon emissions by 910,000 tonnes each year. Located near Merriwa in NSW, it is among the largest solar farms in the state. The project was recently recognized under the Australian government’s Capacity Investment Scheme (CIS), which promotes renewable energy investment.
The Woolooga BESS, co-located with the Woolooga solar farm near Gympie, Queensland, will store up to 640 MWh of energy and have an export capacity of 222 MW. It is expected to be operational by mid-2026, supporting grid stability and energy reliability by storing excess energy and releasing it during peak demand.
These projects mark a significant milestone for Lightsource bp, which is expanding its portfolio in the APAC region, including its first solar projects in Taiwan and New Zealand, adding 1.1 GW of renewable capacity.
Lightsource bp’s COO for APAC, Adam Pegg, highlighted Australia’s abundant renewable resources and emphasized the role of firmed renewables, such as wind and solar backed by batteries, as a cost-effective and reliable energy solution. He stated that these projects set a new benchmark for future developments, ensuring a cleaner, more resilient energy grid to support economic progress and sustainable development.