Renewable energy in Uralla Shire
The New England Renewable Energy Zone (NE REZ) is a major clean energy hub, centered around Uralla, Walcha and Armidale. Led by the Energy Corporation of NSW (EnergyCo), it aims to attract up to $24 billion in private investment and deliver an initial target capacity of 6 to 8 gigawatts of solar, wind, and storage projects.
Uralla Shire is entering a period of significant change as development of the New England REZ progresses across the region. While renewable energy projects have the potential to deliver new jobs, investment and opportunities, they also bring important challenges relating to housing, infrastructure, community wellbeing, agriculture and the environment.
The responsible approval bodies for large-scale renewable energy projects in New South Wales are the NSW Minister for Planning and the Independent Planning Commission (IPC). While Council does not have the authority to approve or stop renewable energy developments, we can influence how they are delivered, including negotiating for community benefits and planning for local impacts.
Council has produced the Renewable Energy Strategic Action Plan to provide a clear framework for how Council will advocate for community priorities and work with government, industry and the community throughout the renewable energy transition.
The Plan is not about supporting or opposing individual renewable energy projects. Instead, it establishes a shared vision for ensuring development is managed in a way that strengthens community life, supports local livelihoods and protects the unique character of Uralla Shire.
The key renewable energy projects proposed for Uralla Shire
Deeargee Solar Farm
Solar, 320MW. SEARs issued. Peak construction workforce: 400. Start date: 1 January 2030. Developer ACEN.
Eastern Hub Firming Battery
Storage, scale: 1000MW/4-8hrs. SEARs issued. Peak construction workforce: 200. Start date: 30 September 2028. Developer Ace Power.
Hillview Energy Hub
Hillview Energy Hub
If all stages go ahead, the project could generate around 500MW of clean electricity from the sun and wind, enough energy to power 300,000 households for 30 to 40 years. SEARs issued. Peak construction workforce: 200 Wind, 300 Solar. Start date: 1 January 2028. Developer is Ace Power.
Hillview Energy Hub
Kurrajong / Uralla Energy Park
An early-stage investigation Wind project led by Someva Renewables, 600MW, scale: 100 WTGs.
New England Solar and Battery
A massive 720MW solar and 200MW battery storage project by ACEN Australia located near Uralla on cleared grazing land. Stage 1 is operating and Stage 2 is consented. Peak construction workforce is 400 for each stage.
New England Solar Stage 1 - ACEN Australia
Thunderbolt Wind Farm
The project is permitted for up to 32 Wind Turbine Generators, with a maximum tip height of 260m. Total 192MW. Consented for construction. Peak workforce 285. Developer is Neoen.
Thunderbolt Energy Hub - Clean Energy for NSW
Winterbourne Wind Farm
Developing a wind energy project near Walcha. The project will have a capacity of up to 730MW and an estimated investment of around $2 billion. Under assessment. Peak construction workforce is 390. Start date: 30 June 2027. Developer is Vestas.
Winterbourne Wind Farm - Generating a better tomorrow
Keep tabs on how these projects are progressing via the NSW Government's Planning Portal.