ACEN Australia submits scoping report for solar plus battery project in NSW

This will be assessed as a state significant development.

ACEN Australia has submitted the scoping report for its Cooma Solar and Battery project that will provide 100 megawatts (MW) of solar production capacity and 80 MW of battery storage in New South Wales.

In a statement, the company said the report, which is the initial phase of the planning approvals process, was submitted to the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure. This will be assessed as a State Significant Development under Part 4 of the NSW Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. 

ACEN said the report provides community members and stakeholders with initial technical information, environmental assessment, and information on further assessments to be conducted during the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIS) process. It also outlines how the company will continue to consult and engage with affected groups.

The assessment will be followed by the issuance of the Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements, which will contain issues that must be addressed in the EIS for the project. The EIS will include an analysis of environmental, social and other impacts of the proposed project and outline mitigation measures.

ACEN Australia eyes submitting the EIS in early 2025, pending receipt of SEARS.