The Federal Government has approved a major new renewable energy project in Central West New South Wales that will turbocharge Australia’s transition to cheaper and cleaner power.
The 840 megawatt (MW) Sandy Creek Solar Farm, located near Dunedoo, will generate enough electricity to supply 200,000 homes across the state. It includes a large-scale battery storage system to support grid reliability.
Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek highlighted the significance of the project, which her department has greenlit following assessment under national environmental laws.
“If not for the decade of political inaction and policy chaos under the previous government, Australia would be much further ahead in tapping its enormous renewable energy potential,” Minister Plibersek said.
“We’re working overtime to unlock this country’s capacity to become a true renewable energy superpower.”
The Sandy Creek Solar Farm marks one of 45 major clean energy developments approved by Minister Plibersek since Labor took office, with another 128 projects in the pipeline awaiting environmental approvals.
In addition to its environmental benefits avoiding 1.4 million tonnes of carbon emissions annually, the solar farm will inject economic vitality into regional NSW. Construction will support up to 600 jobs, with 10 ongoing operational roles.
Minister Plibersek emphasised the dual benefits, stating “As well as dramatically lowering emissions, renewables mean cheaper, cleaner power for all Australians”.
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