AGL Energy (ASX: AGL) and joint venture partner Someva Renewables have secured Commonwealth environmental approval for the Pottinger Energy Park in New South Wales, clearing the final major planning hurdle for one of the state’s largest proposed wind and battery projects.
The decision, which follows NSW Independent Planning Commission approval in August, allows the development to move towards a final investment decision expected in 2026. AGL and Someva said the project would be a cornerstone of NSW’s energy transition, contributing to the state’s renewable energy and emissions targets.
Large-scale capacity
Pottinger is planned as a $3 billion development in the South West Renewable Energy Zone (SW REZ), hosting up to 247 turbines with a combined capacity of 1,300 megawatts (MW) and a grid-scale battery of up to 500 MW/2,000 megawatt-hours (MWh).
Construction is expected to begin in late 2026, starting with up to 140 turbines and a 400 MW/1,600 MWh battery in line with the project’s 831 MW access rights granted by EnergyCo earlier this year.
Once operational, the park is projected to generate enough power to supply around 830,000 average NSW households annually.
Regional impact
Developers expect the project to deliver substantial regional benefits, with as many as 900 jobs created during construction and 55 ongoing operational roles based around the Riverina towns of Hay and Deniliquin.
Someva has also committed to at least $26 million in community investment over 30 years, in addition to indirect economic contributions for local businesses and councils. The approval includes requirements for biodiversity protection and cultural heritage management following extensive consultation with stakeholders.
Challenges ahead
Despite the milestone approval, Pottinger still faces the usual risks attached to large-scale renewable projects, including financing, supply chain pressures and transmission requirements. Successful integration with Project EnergyConnect’s new interconnector and delivery of the battery system will be key to its viability.
Pottinger is among several large projects slated for the SW REZ, an area regarded as central to NSW’s transition away from coal-fired generation and toward long-term renewable capacity.
Outlook
With the Commonwealth’s green light secured, AGL and Someva now move closer to a final investment decision that could see construction under way by the end of 2026.
If delivered as planned, Pottinger would rank among the largest renewable energy projects in NSW, providing a major boost to the state’s clean energy mix and long-term regional development.