The New South Wales Independent Planning Commission has granted approval for the Birriwa Solar Farm, a significant renewable energy project located within the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (CWO REZ).
The development, situated approximately 15 kilometres south-east of Dunedoo, spans across the Mid-Western Regional and Warrumbungle Shire local government areas.
The Birriwa Solar Farm, classified as a state significant development (SSD-29508870), comprises:
- A 600-megawatt (MW) solar farm
- A 600 MW/1200 MW-hour battery energy storage system (BESS)
- An on-site accommodation camp
Once operational, the facility will have the capacity to generate renewable energy sufficient to power over 229,000 homes.
The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure completed a comprehensive assessment of the project in May 2024.
The Commission, acting as the consent authority, was required to make the final decision due to the significant number of public objections and opposition from the Warrumbungle Shire Council.
A three-member Commission Panel, led by Ms Janett Milligan and including Ms Suellen Fitzgerald and Mr Duncan Marshall AM, conducted a thorough review process.
This included meetings with key stakeholders, site inspection and locality tour, public meeting, and review of 65 written submissions from the community.
On August 16, 2024, the Panel granted development consent to the Birriwa Solar Farm project, subject to specific conditions.
In its Statement of Reasons for Decision, the Commission noted that the proposed site aligns with the established strategic planning framework, contributing to NSW’s electricity generation and renewable energy transition.
To address community concerns, the Commission imposed several conditions, including:
- Restrictions on development vehicles using certain sections of the surrounding road network
- Preparation of a soil and water management plan
- Development of an emergency plan
- Implementation of vegetation planting for visual screening
- Environmental monitoring and management requirements
- Ongoing community consultation
These conditions aim to prevent, minimise, and offset adverse environmental impacts, set performance standards, require regular monitoring and reporting, and ensure ongoing environmental management of the development.
The approval of the Birriwa Solar Farm marks a significant step in the development of the Central West Orana Renewable Energy Zone, reinforcing New South Wales’ commitment to sustainable energy production.