Stubbo Solar is a 400-megawatt (MW) large scale solar project approved by the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment in July 2021. It is currently in construction across 1,250 hectares of mostly cleared grazing land in the Central West region of NSW.
It is being constructed by EPC contracting partner PCL Construction.
The project is located near Stubbo about 10 kilometres north of the historic mining town of Gulgong in the Mid-Western Regional Local Government Area. It will generate enough renewable energy to power 185,000 average Australian homes per year and contribute to NSW’s target of 50% renewable energy by 2030.The flat cleared grazing land across the site allows for rows of photovoltaic panels to be installed with enough height and space for sheep to graze in and around the panels. They will provide welcome shade and protection to grazing animals from the hot summer sun.
The project involves construction of rows of solar panels, substation and access roads, and the installation of electrical infrastructure such as inverters and cables. Stubbo Solar also includes a 200 MWh battery energy storage system (BESS), meaning the project can dispatch electricity when it is most needed during peak hours, and provide important grid stability services. Stubbo Solar will connect to the existing 330 kV transmission line that is operated by TransGrid.
In May 2023, ACEN Australia secured a 20 year Long Term Energy Service Agreement (LTESA) for the project in the NSW Government’s first renewable energy and storage auction. The LTESA is a risk management mechanism that will support Stubbo Solar in the future if the National Electricity Market moves into a sustained period of low prices. In return for the long term insurance value provided by the LTESA, ACEN Australia has made substantial financial commitments to support community initiatives, regional manufacturing and employment, and Indigenous participation.
ACEN Australia is committed to the Central-West Orana region for decades to come. We believe the region has many opportunities for renewable energy to be developed in a way that optimises land use for the dual purpose of energy and agricultural production. Learn more about the NSW Government's Renewable Energy Zone.
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 at Stubbo Solar.
A Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) for Stubbo Solar is in place with Mid-Western Regional Council for the life of the project. Consisting of a $100,000 to be paid during the construction period, and an annual payment of $300 per megawatt installed (~$120,000 per year), this funding is administered by Council for the purpose of delivering and facilitating community projects in Gulgong and or within 25km of Stubbo Solar. For more information, read the VPA below or contact Mid-Western Regional Council.
ACEN Australia’s Social Investment Program (SIP) is our voluntary contribution to Gulgong. Totalling $200,000 throughout the construction period, funding is available to not-for profit organisations and activities that directly benefit and enhance the liveability and vibrancy of the Gulgong community.
The expected peak construction workforce for Stubbo Solar is 400 and we have a workforce accommodation strategy with Mid Western Regional Council to limit the impact on regional housing availability and affordability while enabling the region’s thriving tourism industry to flourish.
ACEN Australia seeks to reduce the impact on short term stay accommodation in the New England region as part of the construction of New England Solar. If you have a property available for rent, we would be be interested in hearing from you. Please register your details and they will be provided to our contracting partners.
A commitment is in place to prioritise the participation of Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to deliver goods and services for the construction of Stubbo Solar, and to employ locally where possible. This commitment is embedded into the project delivery model with EPC contracting partner PCL Constructions.
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.
We are planning several projects in the NSW Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (CWOREZ) in the coming years and we are working with stakeholders and communities to balance the impacts and opportunities that a growing renewable energy industry can bring. We want to maximise local employment and business opportunities and deliver the most appropriate accommodation solutions for our workforces. Our preference and priority is to employ locally first, however current skills and labour shortages are a considerable barrier in achieving this.
We know the importance of early engagement with communities and stakeholders and are guided by industry and global standards.
Register a complaint
info@stubbosolar.com.au
1800 434 062
ACEN Australia Complaints Procedure
ACEN Australia Complaints Procedure
Project office
79b Herbert Street, Gulgong
Open Tuesday – Thursday ( 9:00am- 5:00pm)
Email
info@stubbosolar.com.au
Social media
facebook.com/StubboSolar
Phone
1800 434 062
Contracting partner
PCL Construction at STSPCommunity@pcl.com
NSW EnergyCo
For enquiries relating to the design and implementation of NSW Renewable Energy Zones
www.energyco.nsw.gov.au/contact
1800 118 894