Wind drought could soon be broken after huge energy park gets federal green tick

One of the biggest wind and battery projects in Australia is expected to begin construction next year after securing federal environmental approval on Friday.

The Pottinger Energy Park, jointly developed by Someva Renewables and AGL Energy, has approval for up to 1.3 gigawatts (GW) of wind capacity, which could be paired with a 500 MW, 2,000 MWh battery.

However, the project – located south of Hay in the south-west renewable energy zone in NSW – is currently limited by grid capacity, and only has “grid rights” for 831 megawatts (MW) at this stage.

That means that the first stage built will be limited to just 140 of the planned 247 turbines (until grid extra capacity can be delivered), and the battery will probably be sized down to around 400 MW and 1600 MWh.

Someva and AGL now have all their environmental approvals – having overcome long-distance objectors that forced the project to be referred to the Independent Planning Commission – and have still to work through the grid connection process.

The project is pending a final investment decision with the initial phase of construction planned to begin in late 2026.

No wind farms have reached financial close in Australia’s main grid so far in 2025, but the fact that AGL – a major generator and retailer – is a part owner means that there is a ready buyer for at least some of the project’s output.

AGL’s head of power development Travis Hughes says the two developers are aiming to reach financial close in 2026, with construction to start later next year.

“The wind farm will provide a major long-term boost to the economic and social prosperity of the Riverina – particularly communities in and surrounding Hay and Deniliquin,” Someva managing director Jamie Chivers said in a statement.

“It will also play an important role in delivering the clean energy needed to achieve Australia’s renewable energy targets.

“From day one our focus has been on developing a wind farm that delivers real value for the Riverina by supporting locals, creating jobs and protecting what matters – including local biodiversity and cultural sites.

“With strong backing from Hay Shire Council and Edward River Council, and a co-designed Community Benefits Program in place, Pottinger Energy Park will deliver at least $26 million in direct support for the community over the next 30 years.”

Chivers said this in addition to tens of millions of dollars in indirect benefits and broader economic stimulus that comes with new jobs and local business opportunities.

To learn more about renewables development in that region, check out our recent interview with Hay Shire Council’s Alison McLean in Renew Economy’s Energy Insiders podcast: “We set the rules of engagement:” How one community took control when wind and solar came to town.

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