The proposed Bendemeer Renewable Energy Hub would comprise the construction, operation and decommissioning of a 280-megawatt solar farm, a 150-megawatt / 300-megawatt hour Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) and associated infrastructure in Bendemeer, New South Wales. The project is being developed by Athena Energy.
Construction of the solar farm would include the development of:
- a 280-megawatt solar farm with 50,000 PV modules
- a 150-megawatt / 300-megawatt hour BESS
- access roads
- underground and above ground cables
- on-site substation, and
- associated operational facilities.
The proponent has indicated they are also considering development of a 58-turbine wind farm on the site, with approvals for this to be progressed separately.
The site is situated within the NSW New England Renewable Energy Zone.
Key Dates
| Jan 2022 | Project Announcement |
| 2025 | Expected Construction Commencement |
| 2026 | Expected Construction Completion |
PROJECT HISTORY
| Jan 2022 | A scoping report and request for the Secretary's Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARs) was released. |
| Jan 2022 | The scoping report identified that the project may include a future wind farm subject to investigation. |
| Mar 2023 | The NSW Department of Planning and Environment Secretary's Environmental Assessment Requirements were issued for the preparation of the Environmental Impact Statement of the project. |
| Jul 2023 | Athena Energy released their Environmental Impact Statement. In it the scope of the solar farm had increase capacity from 210 megawatts to 280 megawatts, and the BESS from 200 megawatts to 300 megawatts. The proponents also indicated that they are proposing a 58 turbine wind farm, which will be developed through a separate approval process. |
Estimated Total Cost
(2022)
Sector
Energy
Procurement approach
Other |
Location
New South Wales |
Resources
