The Merino Solar Farm will send clean & renewable energy into the New South Wales (NSW) electricity grid, providing power to local and broader NSW communities
![AU map AU map](/apac/sites/edprapac/files/styles/focal_point_content_highlight_image_562x562/public/2024-06/AU%20map_2-01.jpg.webp?itok=mJLopYrV)
In November 2023, EDP Renewables (EDPR) acquired ITP Development in Australia and the company became part of EDP Renewables APAC, a leading clean energy hub for the region.
The Australia team develops town-scale solar farms in Australia, undertakes solar farm landholder engagement, system design, planning approvals, financing, electrical connection approvals and commissioning.
EDP Renewables Australia maintains relationships with multiple stakeholders – communities, governments and contractors to ensure successful projects delivery. We currently hold a broad portfolio of solar projects in the New South Wales region and are moving towards battery storage development.
About the Project
The Merino Solar Farm at Tirrannaville would produce approximately 530 MW of energy, with an associated Battery Energy Storage System of 1200 MWh. The solar energy produced would be used to send clean, renewable power into the NSW electricity grid to serve the needs of both the local community and the broader NSW. It would assist in the rapid decarbonisation initiative underlaid by the NSW government’s critical Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap.
EDP Renewables Australia is committed to consistently cooperate with the local community and authorities, ensuring that the project aligns with local needs and values.
![Merino Solar Farm timeline Merino Solar Farm timeline](/apac/sites/edprapac/files/2024-07/timeline.png)
Planning Process & Project Links
The Scoping Report has been submitted to the NSW Government Planning Department for assessment. Several key government agencies and relevant councils will undertake an assessment of the report. To view the Scoping Report, as well as the Current Project status, click here.
Once the review is complete, a Secretary’s environmental assessment requirements (SEARs) will be issued to the project, indicating what information needs to be included in the upcoming environmental impact statement (EIS). The EIS phase will provide another opportunity for community and stakeholders to engage and make formal submissions on the proposal.
For further information on project timelines and details, please view our latest document.
Community
EDP Renewables Australia seeks to ensure that landholders, stakeholders and the wider community have enough understanding of the proposed project, how it may affect them, the development of the Environmental Impact Assessment, and how they can participate. If landholders aren’t home, we’ll make arrangements to return or meet over the phone or video conference.
We are available to answer your questions or concerns – please call 1800 242 282 or email at australia@edp.com.
Your feedback will help inform our studies as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment process.
Employment Opportunities
At the peak of construction, the project will provide employment and specialist training for up to 350 jobs, with opportunities for local contractors and subcontractors. Construction for a project of this size is anticipated to take up to 18 months.
Where possible, Merino Solar Farm will look to recruit from within the region, helping to keep benefits from the project in the local area. We will continue to engage with the community about these opportunities as planning continues.
If you are interested in future employment or contracting opportunities, please email australia@edp.com where we will register your details on our database.
If you are looking to register your interest in getting involved with the project, feel free to contact us. We will keep your details and provide any project updates as we progress with the project. Our phone number is available during business hours Mondays to Fridays.
General enquiries - australia@edp.com / 1800 242 282