It was announced on Friday that Pottinger Energy Park received environmental approval from the Federal Government.
This should allow Someva Renewables and AGL Energy to start construction of their wind and battery farm from next year, pending a final investment decision.
Pottinger Energy Park is to be located about 60km south of Hay and 75km north of Deniliquin.
It is named after the Pottinger family – one of the first families to install and maintain windmills in the region.
The development will generate up to 1,300 megawatt (MW) of renewable energy through 247 wind turbines, alongside a battery storage system of up to 500MW/2000MWh.
The project secured NSW Independent Planning Commission approval in August 2025 and an 831MW Access Right from EnergyCo in April 2025, with construction now set to begin in late next year.
The initial stage will see the installation of up to 140 wind turbines, coupled with a 400MW/1,600MWh battery, linking to the Project EnergyConnect transmission network.
Someva Renewables managing director Jamie Chivers said the completed energy park will have the capacity to power about 830,000 NSW households yearly, while creating 900 construction jobs and 55 permanent operational roles.
“We are proud to have secured Commonwealth approval for Pottinger Energy Park,” Mr Chivers said.
“The wind farm will provide a major long-term boost to the economic and social prosperity of the Riverina – particularly communities in and surrounding Hay and Deniliquin.
“It will also play an important role in delivering the clean energy needed to achieve Australia's renewable energy targets.”
Mr Chivers said the focus for both Someva and AGL is to develop a wind farm that delivers “real value for the Riverina by supporting locals, creating jobs and protecting what matters – including local biodiversity and cultural sites”.
“With strong backing from Hay Shire Council and Edward River Council, and a co-designed Community Benefits Program in place, Pottinger Energy Park will deliver at least $26 million in direct support for the community over the next 30 years,” he said.
“This is in addition to tens of millions of dollars in indirect benefits and broader economic stimulus that comes with new jobs and local business opportunities.”
To find out more about Pottinger Energy Park, go to somevarenewables.com.au/pottinger.
For more on all the renewable projects proposed for our region, go to https://www.energyco.nsw.gov.au/our-projects/south-west-rez.
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