Middlebrook Solar Farm and Battery Project Approved

After overcoming years of opposition, the Middlebrook solar farm in the New England region of NSW has finally received the green light to commence construction, as the federal environment regulator deemed the project did not require its approval.

The proposed 320-megawatt (MW) solar farm, along with a 300MW/780MWh big battery, planned for a location south of Tamworth, underwent a public comment period in February under the federal Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) process.

Project Approval Process

TotalEnergies, a subsidiary of the global oil company Total, submitted the project for EPBC assessment due to the presence of threatened vegetation communities on the site. Concerns were raised about potential impacts on koalas, rainbow bee-eaters, and satin flycatchers, with only the rainbow bee-eater being observed.

Following the EBPC’s determination that the project does not fall under controlled actions, it has now secured both state and federal approvals to proceed. The New South Wales Independent Planning Commission (IPC) granted approval in November, following the submission of 116 objections, a significant portion of which originated from the local area and beyond.

Community Concerns and Alterations

Public submissions for the state planning application commenced in 2023, with objections primarily focusing on issues such as local traffic, land use, and food security. Notably, objections from over 50 individuals necessitated IPC review, prompting adjustments by TotalEnergies to address concerns.

Responding to feedback, the project design was revised to consolidate the battery in one location, enhance site access points, and reduce the scale of a bridge over a creek. The IPC’s approval was based on factors such as the project’s proximity to existing electricity networks, favourable solar conditions, minimal environmental impact, and continued land use for grazing.

Key Stakeholders and Future Plans

The project’s location adjacent to a major highway and existing transmission infrastructure underscores its strategic positioning. With construction expected to span up to two years, TotalEnergies remains poised to advance the development.

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Rachel Williamson is a dedicated science and business journalist, specialising in climate change, health, and environmental topics.