Global renewable energy developer OX2 marks major milestone on the Muswellbrook Solar Farm and Battery, on the site of a former coal mine
Located on the site of a former coal mine, the 135MWac Muswellbrook Solar Farm and 100MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) will power up to 52, 310 homes and create up to 200 jobs during construction.
The project is being built 2.5km east of Muswellbrook in the Hunter Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) and is a leading example of Australia’s energy transformation in action, showcasing the move from traditional fossil fuels to clean, cheap and reliable renewables.
OX2 is committed to genuine community engagement and creating long term tangible benefits for locals, through jobs, economic development, skills and training. OX2 will contribute around $115,000 every year to a Community Benefit Sharing Program, as outlined in a Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) with Muswellbrook Shire Council.
This is the first owner/operator project for OX2 in Australia, further showcasing the long-term commitment to the Hunter community.
“OX2 is extremely proud to reach financial close on the Muswellbrook project and deliver a project that illustrates Australia’s renewable energy opportunity.”
“We are delivering on our long-term commitment to Australia’s energy future and real benefits for regional communities through local jobs and the Community Benefit Sharing Program in partnership with Muswellbrook Shire Council,” said Stephen Symons, Vice President, OX2 Australia.
Idemitsu Australia co-developed this Solar and BESS with OX2 and remains a long-term landholder of the project site.
“We welcome this major milestone for the Muswellbrook project and acknowledge the ongoing partnership with OX2 to help transform Australia’s energy system with reliable firmed renewables,” said Steve Kovac, Chief Executive Officer, Idemitsu Australia.
Construction will begin immediately and the project will be operational in 2028. OX2 has appointed an Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) joint venture between Bouygues Construction Australia and Equans Solar and Storage Australia (BYESSA) to deliver the project.
“The Bouygues Construction Australia and Equans Solar & Storage JV, looks forward to commencing construction of the Muswellbrook project for OX2 and contributing to New South Wales’ renewable energy transition. Across all of our sites we are focused on delivering positive environmental outcomes for the benefit of future generations. We firmly believe in the power of renewable energy to create a more sustainable future for all, and we are delighted to work with OX2 on this important project.” Seved Robin, CEO Bouygues Construction Australia.
The project has secured a long-term hybrid power purchase agreement with an international offtaker, covering both solar generation and battery energy storage.
MUFG is the Sole Structuring Coordinator and Mandated Lead Arranger, Underwriter and Bookrunner on the project financing. This is the second project to be built by OX2 since it entered the Australian market in 2022.