OX2 Transforms Aussie Coal Mine into Solar Power Hub

• OX2 AB transforms a former coal site into a 135-MW solar park in Australia, pioneering renewable energy in the Hunter Valley by 2027.

Swedish renewables developer OX2 AB has received environmental approval to construct a 135-MW solar park with a co-located battery at a former coal mining site in New South Wales, Australia. The project, known as the Muswellbrook solar farm, will be situated in the Hunter Valley region and is part of the Hunter Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone. The approval was granted under the federal Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act, following clearance with conditions by New South Wales’ Independent Planning Commission.

The solar farm will cover 482 hectares and include a 135-MW/two-hour battery energy storage system, with operations expected to commence by 2027. Catherine Way, director of development at OX2 Australia, highlighted the project as a pioneering effort in transforming coal mines into energy generation sites. OX2 currently has 3.7 GW of solar, wind, and storage projects in development and construction across Australia, including the 90-MW Summerville Solar Farm, which received approval in July.

How will the Muswellbrook solar farm transform a former coal mining site?

• Repurposes a former coal mining site, contributing to land rehabilitation and environmental restoration.
• Supports the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy, aligning with global decarbonization goals.
• Provides a model for similar transformations of other decommissioned mining sites worldwide.
• Enhances local energy security and reduces reliance on coal by generating clean, renewable energy.
• Creates job opportunities during construction and operation, aiding local economic development.
• Integrates a battery energy storage system to enhance grid stability and manage energy supply.
• Contributes to the Hunter Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone, boosting regional renewable energy capacity.
• Demonstrates the potential for innovative land use in post-mining landscapes, promoting sustainable development.