The Victoria government has expedited the approval process for two significant renewable energy projects, furthering its commitment to transition to sustainable energy sources. On Saturday, officials announced the green light for the Meadow Creek solar farm and the Tramway Roads battery expansion. These projects are pivotal in the state’s efforts to enhance its renewable energy infrastructure.
The Meadow Creek solar farm, located near Wangaratta, will feature a combined capacity of 332 megawatts (MW) of solar energy alongside a 250 MW battery system with a storage capacity of 1,000 megawatt-hours (MWh). In addition, the Tramway Roads battery, owned by Eku Energy, will have a capacity of 300 MW and a storage capacity of 1,200 MWh. This facility will be constructed adjacent to an existing substation and close to the 150 MW Hazelwood battery, marking a significant expansion in the coal-dominated Latrobe Valley.
The Meadow Creek project, valued at approximately $750 million, is spearheaded by a local farming entity and will be constructed by Energy Vault. Initially known for its gravity-based energy storage solutions, Energy Vault has shifted its focus to more conventional solar and lithium-ion battery technologies. The company is also developing a 125 MW, 1,000 MWh battery project at Stoney Creek in New South Wales, which it acquired earlier this year.
Community consultation has been a focal point for Meadow Creek, as the development team engaged with local stakeholders, including the traditional owners, the Taungurung people. While the project has faced criticism regarding fire hazards, water management, and visual impact, the company asserts it has taken steps to address these issues. “We’re also committed to delivering direct benefits to the nearest community, including reinvesting a portion of the project’s returns locally,” stated Cameron Munro, development director of the Meadow Creek solar farm.
The approval of these projects is part of a broader trend towards solar-battery hybrid systems in Australia, which are emerging as competitive alternatives to wind energy due to increasing costs and planning challenges. Currently, large-scale solar-battery hybrids, which allow for the integration of solar energy and battery storage at a single connection point, are not yet prevalent in Australia’s main grid. Nevertheless, two such projects are under construction, with over a dozen others having secured state and federal contracts.
Since its inception, Victoria’s Development Facilitation Program (DFP) has expedited approvals for 22 projects with a total value exceeding $7.8 billion. The state government aims to achieve 95 percent renewable energy by 2035, anticipating the closure of its remaining brown coal generators by that time.
Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny emphasized the requirement for project proponents to engage in thorough consultations with community members and relevant government agencies, including the Country Fire Authority and local water authorities. The government’s proactive approach reinforces its commitment to a sustainable energy future while addressing community concerns.
As Victoria advances its renewable energy initiatives, the government invites residents to stay informed about developments in clean energy. Those interested can subscribe to a daily newsletter for updates on the latest in renewable energy efforts.
