80MW installed capacity
180MW 2hr battery energy storage system
200 jobs at peak construction

The project

The Cooma Solar and battery project is a proposed hybrid 180-megawatt (MW) / two-hour Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) and 80-megawatt renewable energy generation project. The project is located within the locality of Bunyan, in the NSW region of Snowy Monaro and 7km north of the township of Cooma.

Cooma Solar will help Australia transition to net zero carbon emissions, delivering low-cost renewable energy and jobs for the Snowy Monaro region. It will power around 36,000 average Australian homes each year and contribute to the national target of 82% renewable energy by 2030. The BESS would enable energy to be stored and released during periods of increased demand.

The project will involve the construction and operation of rows of solar panels, the BESS, electrical infrastructure and supporting infrastructure including access roads.

Once operational, there will be space under and between the panels for sheep to graze, continuing the region’s close agricultural connection with the land.

Project assessment process

The project is likely to be assessed as a State Significant Development of the NSW Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, with a range of assessments and site surveys to be undertaken. The NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) is the responsible State planning authority for the project.

At a glance

Up to

80MW

installed capacity
Power up to

36,000

average Australian homes each year
Energy storage from

180MW/2HR

Battery Energy Storage System
Up to

200

jobs at peak construction
Contribute to national target of

82%

renewable energy by 2030
Employ and buy

Local

commitment

Community

Built on a foundation of trust and shared value, we seek to develop relationships with communities that create enduring and positive impact. Here are some of the things we are doing and have proposed to implement for Cooma Solar following project approval:

ACEN Australia Social Investment Program (SIP) available to the community from now and into construction of the project.
Neighbour agreements so eligible properties receive a direct benefit
Commitment to responsibly decommission all project infrastructure at the end of project life
Commitment to prioritise the participation of Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to deliver goods and services
Commitment to product stewardship through environmental and social procurement that encourage circular economy outcomes
Solar panel rows and heights designed so grazing can co-exist once the project is operational
Carefully consider suitable accommodation solutions for the project construction workforce so as not to negatively impact on housing availability and affordability
Commitment to First Nations participation through areas such as contracting, employment, training and business innovation
Commitment to Learning Worker participation through areas such as traineeships and apprenticeships
Commitment to using local content for construction materials from Australia or New Zealand

First Nations participation

As a company seeking to harness wind, solar and water resources for energy today, we reflect on the contributions made by First Nations over thousands of years. We recognise the value of a better understanding of Aboriginal history and culture, and commit to meaningful participation with First Nations groups to support the protection of country, culture and the development of their aspirations.

Investing in the past to guide the future

Social Investment Program

ACEN Australia’s Social Investment Program (SIP) provides grants and sponsorships for eligible individuals and organisations that are contributing to building thriving and resilient communities. This is ACEN Australia’s voluntary contribution during the development, construction and operation of a project. Funding is available to not-for profit organisations and activities that directly benefit and enhance the liveability and vibrancy of a community.

SIP Guidelines A company that’s all about community

Jobs and business

We have a commitment to employ and buy locally where we can so we can keep the benefits local. With such a significant construction investment, it is anticipated there will be many opportunities for regional businesses to be involved. Goods and services likely to be procured locally include:

To register your interest in supplying goods and services for Cooma Solar, please provide your details. Please note, most procurement will occur during the construction phase and, if approved, Cooma Solar is scheduled for construction in 2027.