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.

Key Documents

The key renewable energy projects proposed for Uralla Shire

New England Solar and Battery

A massive 720MW solar and 200MW battery storage project by ACEN Australia located near Uralla on cleared grazing land.

New England Solar Stage 1 - ACEN Australia

Winterbourne Wind Farm

Developing a wind energy project near Walcha in the Northern Tablelands of New South Wales. The project will have a capacity of up to 730 MW and an estimated investment of around $2 billion.

Winterbourne Wind Farm - Generating a better tomorrow

Thunderbolt Wind Farm

The project is permitted for up to 32 Wind Turbine Generators, with a maximum tip height of 260m. Each turbine can expect to generate 6-7 MW.

Thunderbolt Energy Hub - Clean Energy for NSW

Hillview Energy Hub

If all stages go ahead, the project could generate around 500 MW of clean electricity from the sun and wind, enough energy to power 300,000 households for 30 to 40 years.

Hillview Energy Hub

Uralla Energy Park

An early-stage investigation project led by Someva Renewables positioned within the Shire's footprint.

Latest News

July 2026

Council's latest update on the NE REZ highlights major planning activity, new funding commitments and ongoing efforts to ensure local communities benefit from the region's renewable energy transformation.

Most of the large renewable energy projects proposed for the district remain in the assessment stage, with developers preparing Environmental Impact Statements. The next phase of the rollout will bring greater focus on roads, water supply, worker accommodation and managing the cumulative impacts of multiple projects occurring at the same time.

Water security continues to dominate community discussion. EnergyCo has provided updated estimates showing the transmission project could require between 20 and 50 megalitres of potable water annually and up to 160 megalitres of non‑potable water during peak construction periods. Council is seeking further detail about where water will be needed before deciding whether any local supply can be made available.