Lightsource bp Approved for Major NSW Solar Project

• Lightsource bp's Goulburn River Solar Farm will transform the Upper Hunter, powering 191,000 homes while slashing carbon emissions and creating 350 jobs with significant renewable energy investment.

Lightsource bp has received approval from the New South Wales government to construct a 450-MW solar park, the Goulburn River Solar Farm, with an investment of AUD 800 million. Located in the Upper Hunter region, the project will generate approximately 992,000 MWh of electricity annually, sufficient to power around 191,000 homes, and is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by about 733,000 tonnes each year.

The solar facility will feature a battery energy storage system (BESS) for efficient energy management and grid stability during peak demand. Construction is set to create around 350 jobs and the project benefits from proximity to existing electricity infrastructure, facilitating connection to the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone and Hunter-Central Coast REZ.

What are the key benefits and impacts of the Goulburn River Solar Farm project?

Key Benefits and Impacts of the Goulburn River Solar Farm Project

- Significant Energy Production: The Goulburn River Solar Farm will generate approximately 992,000 MWh of clean energy annually, playing a critical role in meeting local and regional energy demands while supporting the transition to renewable energy sources.

- Household Energy Support: With enough electricity to power around 191,000 homes, the project directly contributes to energy security and helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels within the residential sector.

- Carbon Emission Reduction: By offsetting approximately 733,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions each year, the project contributes to global efforts to combat climate change and improve air quality, promoting a healthier environment for future generations.

- Job Creation and Economic Boost: During construction, the solar farm is expected to create around 350 jobs, providing employment opportunities in the construction sector and stimulating the local economy. This can lead to additional economic benefits in related sectors, such as transportation and services.

- Enhanced Energy Storage Solution: The incorporation of a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) will improve the efficiency of energy management, enabling the storage of excess energy generated during peak sunlight hours. This will help stabilize the grid, especially during periods of high demand.

- Support for Renewable Energy Zones (REZ): The project is strategically located near existing electricity infrastructure, facilitating its integration into the Central-West Orana and Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zones. This connection is essential for maximizing the benefits of renewable energy generation in the region.

- Attraction of Future Investments: The successful development of the Goulburn River Solar Farm could serve as a model for future renewable energy projects, attracting further investment into the region and fostering technological advancements in renewable energy solutions.

- Community Engagement and Investment: The project presents opportunities for community involvement and investment in renewable initiatives, promoting sustainable practices and educational programs that raise awareness about the benefits of renewable energy.

- Mitigation of Peak Demand Pressure: By integrating a BESS and providing a substantial amount of renewable energy, the Goulburn River Solar Farm is positioned to alleviate pressure on the energy grid during peak demand periods, ensuring a more reliable power supply for consumers.

- Biodiversity and Land-use Management: Responsible land management practices associated with solar farm construction can lead to beneficial outcomes for local biodiversity, including the potential for dual land use, such as agricultural activities combined with solar energy generation.