EQT-owned OX2 Secures Environmental Approval for 135 MW Solar Park at Former Australian Coal Mine.

OX2, a wind power company owned by EQT, has received environmental approval for a 135 MW solar and energy storage park at a former coal mine in New South Wales, Australia. The project, developed with Idemitsu Australia, aims to transform the site into a hub for industry and energy solutions. It is one of the first to convert a coal mine into an energy production site, serving as a pilot case for the region's transition from coal mining to new energy solutions.

OX2, a leading renewable energy developer owned by EQT, has received environmental approval to build a 135 MW solar and energy storage park at a decommissioned coal mine in Muswellbrook, New South Wales, Australia. The project, developed in partnership with Idemitsu Australia, aims to transform the former mining site into a hub for industry and energy solutions. This marks one of the first instances of converting a coal mine into an energy production site, serving as a pilot case for the broader region's transition from coal mining to renewable energy [1].

The Muswellbrook solar project is part of a broader vision to redevelop the former mining site into an industrial and energy innovation hub. The project site is adjacent to the Muswellbrook Coal Mine, which ceased operations in 2022, on land primarily owned by Idemitsu Australia. The project already holds development approval and is one of two OX2 projects in Australia to receive EPBC approval [1].

OX2’s portfolio in Australia currently includes 3.7 GW of solar, wind, and storage projects under development and construction, with 390 MW currently under management [1]. The company operates a diverse project portfolio across various renewable energy technologies, including onshore and offshore wind, solar, and storage. OX2 is present in 9 markets across Europe and Australia and has approximately 500 employees headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden [1].

The approval for the Muswellbrook project comes amidst a growing trend of renewable energy adoption in Australia. In 2023, renewables contributed 35% of total electricity generation, up 3% from the previous year, with solar, wind, and hydro making up 16%, 12%, and 6% respectively [2]. This increase highlights the growing momentum behind renewable energy across the country.

The approval of the Muswellbrook solar project aligns with OX2’s strategic focus on transforming former mining sites into renewable energy hubs. The company’s success in securing environmental approval for this project underscores its commitment to sustainable development and innovation in the renewable energy sector.

References:
[1] https://mfn.se/a/ox2/ox2-receives-environmental-approval-to-build-solar-farm-at-decommissioned-coal-mine-in-australia
[2] https://www.energy.gov.au/energy-data/australian-energy-statistics/electricity-generation