Neoen Launches Major Solar Farm and Upcoming Battery Project in Australia
One of the largest solar farms in Australia, the Culcairn project, developed by Neoen Australia, has commenced operations in the South East Riverina Region of New South Wales.
With a capacity of 350 megawatts (MW), or 440 MWp, Culcairn stands as Neoen’s second most substantial solar installation, following the 400 MW Western Downs solar farm in Queensland. Construction on this ambitious project began in late 2023, employing a workforce of up to 600 individuals and introducing cutting-edge robotic solar mounting technology.
Significant Energy Contribution
According to Neoen, “Culcairn is our second largest solar asset globally and will produce enough electricity to power 160,000 homes annually. We take pride in its contribution towards helping New South Wales achieve its goal of reducing carbon emissions by 50 per cent by 2030.” The solar farm occupies 1,000 hectares located roughly 45 km north of Albury and 70 km south of Wagga Wagga, featuring nearly 760,000 solar panels installed. During its peak construction phase, the project provided jobs to 600 workers.
Power Purchase Agreement Implementation
With the completion of Culcairn, the facility is set to fulfil its power purchase agreement, a four-year contract to supply 50 per cent of its output to Smartest Energy, who will retail to commercial and industrial clients. This project also has the backing of an underwriting agreement (a long-term energy services deal) with the New South Wales government, which was established in 2023. This partnership complements the ongoing development of the Uungula wind farm, currently the only wind project in construction within NSW.
Neoen Australia expressed gratitude to the landholders and First Nations custodians involved in the project on their LinkedIn page. They stated, “Situated on Wiradjuri Country … Culcairn Solar Farm is a reality today due to the resilience and dedication exhibited by our host landowners. They have supported us at each stage over the past seven years in creating a greener future for the next generations.”
Expansion with a New Battery Project
In addition to the solar farm, Neoen is constructing a large battery storage facility at the site. Originally planned at 100 MW/200 MWh, the project has expanded to 350 MW and 800 MWh and has recently been upgraded to 904 MWh due to enhanced battery unit density.
The company is currently in the process of selecting a battery supplier, who will also serve as the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contractor, aiming for construction to commence mid-year. Neoen anticipates that the battery project will take about two years to complete and will employ approximately 160 workers during its peak construction phase.
This significant development marks a stride forward in Australia’s renewable energy landscape, contributing to the ongoing efforts to promote cleaner energy solutions.
