OX2 Gains Green Light for 135MW Muswellbrook Solar and Storage Project

OX2 has received environmental clearance under the EPBC Act to proceed with its 135MW Muswellbrook solar and battery project in New South Wales.

The project will be built next to the Muswellbrook Coal Mine, which ceased operations in 2022, on land mainly owned by Idemitsu Australia. Developed in partnership with Idemitsu, the initiative forms part of a wider plan to transform the former mining site into a hub for industry and clean energy.

According to Catherine Way, OX2 Australia’s director of development, the project represents one of the first attempts to convert a retired coal mine into a renewable energy facility, serving as a key example for the Upper Hunter Valley’s transition.

This marks OX2’s second Australian project to secure EPBC approval, following the 90MW Summerville solar and storage development cleared in July.

Country manager Stephen Symons noted that the approvals highlight both the expertise of the company’s team and the growing momentum behind renewables in Australia.

OX2’s Australian pipeline currently stands at 3.7GW of solar, wind, and storage projects in various stages of development and construction, with 390MW already under management.