OX2 gets enviro approval for Muswellbrook Solar and BESS

Solar photovoltaic arrays (new zealand)
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Renewables developer OX2 has received EPBC approval for its 135MW Muswellbrook solar and storage project in New South Wales.

The project site is adjacent to the Muswellbrook Coal Mine, which ceased operations in 2022, on land primarily owned by mine operator Idemitsu Australia.

Related article: OX2’s Summerville Solar Farm and BESS tick federal approval

The project forms part of a broader vision to redevelop the former mining site into a hub for industrial and energy innovation. The project is being developed together with Idemitsu and already has development approval.

OX2 Australia director of development Catherine Way said, “This is a leading example of the transition of the Upper Hunter Valley from coal mining to innovative post-mining land uses.

“The Muswellbrook solar project is an early mover in the re-purposing of a coal mine into an energy generation site and serves as an important test case for the broader region.”

Related article: Sweden’s OX2 acquires first onshore wind project in Australia

Muswellbrook is the second OX2 project in Australia to receive EPBC approval. The 90MW Summerville solar and storage project, also in New South Wales, received EPBC approval in July.

OX2’s portfolio in Australia currently includes 3.7GW of solar, wind, and storage projects under development and construction. OX2 also provides management services for renewable energy assets, with 390MW currently under management in Australia.

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