As we reach the end of a fantastic year, we wanted to share a few exciting updates on the progress of Pottinger Energy Park.
In this edition of our Community Update, you can learn more about:
- Key milestones and the timeline ahead for Pottinger Energy Park
- Local business opportunities
- Community benefits and local funding
- How to get in touch with the team if you have any questions
Key milestones for the year and what’s ahead in 2026
2025 has been a significant year for Pottinger Energy Park, with some key milestones achieved as the project continues its development stage.
Earlier this year in April, the project was awarded an Access Right in the South West Renewable Energy Zone (SW REZ) by EnergyCo (a NSW Government agency) for up to 831.2 megawatts (MW) of wind and battery energy.
Later in August, the Independent Planning Commission (IPC) of NSW approved the development of Pottinger Energy Park, shortly followed by Commonwealth approval from the Australian Government in September – the final major planning approval milestone for the project.
Both the IPC and Commonwealth approvals allow for up to 1,300 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy from 247 wind turbines to be constructed. However, the initial phase of construction, which is expected to commence in late 2026, will see approximately 831.2 MW of export capacity built in line with the Access Right for the SW REZ issued by EnergyCo. This is enough electricity to power the equivalent on average of 510,000 NSW households annually.
The initial phase of development will include the construction of approximately 115 wind turbines supported by a 400 MW / 1,600 MWh battery connected to the Project EnergyConnect transmission network. This will create up to 550 jobs at peak construction and up to 35 ongoing roles throughout its operational life.
Early works are already underway – including design development, supplier negotiations and grid connection. We’re also working on our special management plans, which provide more detail on key project aspects such as biodiversity, traffic, road improvements, archeological heritage, bushfire risk, accommodation and employment and much more.
Procurement process and business opportunities
Pottinger Energy Park is pleased to be in the final stages of engaging its main contractors.
We expect the main contractors to begin their formal procurement process in 2026, and we will provide further details on this closer to the time.
Expressions of Interest submissions for work packages will remain open on ICN Gateway until April 2026, and we encourage local businesses to continue to make submissions for specific work packages to potentially benefit from the economic opportunities available in the construction phase of the project.
Job and service needs include fencing, earthworks, concreting, civil engineering, transport, logistics, catering, accommodation, mechanical and electrical trades.
Later in 2026, we will be running local business forums in Hay and Deniliquin alongside our main selected contractors. These forums will focus on tender readiness, managing cashflow and managing large contracts.
If you know of any local businesses or contractors that may be interested, please encourage them to reach out to us.
As part of planning for the local workforce, we are reviewing accommodation options, including exploring a camp on the project site, or the use of the current accommodation camp at Booroorban.
Community benefits and local funding
Pottinger Energy Park is committed to delivering substantial financial and social benefits to Hay, Deniliquin, and the broader Riverina community.
That’s why we’re pleased to be distributing $515,000 to local community and First Nations groups as part of the Pottinger Energy Park REZ Success Fund. As of now, $220,000 in funding is already confirmed via Community Funding Agreements, and $100,000 of this has already been provided to the community.
These initiatives directly respond to local issues raised with us during consultation such as education and training, youth mental health, bushfire support, childcare, and First Nations knowledge sharing and ranger programs. Community Agreements already in place include:
- Giz A Break – supporting youth engagement via education camps for young people
- Deni Can Assist – providing support for local cancer patients
- River Region Early Education Centre – providing childcare for rural children
- Hay Inc. – programs promoting farming (food and fibre production) alongside renewables
- Booroorban Sporting and Social Club – enhancing social cohesion through hall infrastructure
- Rural Fire Service (MIA district) – improving emergency resilience with equipment to support communities.
Other agreement for supporting local programs and initiatives are being finalised, including with Deniliquin LALC, the NSW Indigenous Chamber of Commerce, the Rural Fire Service (Mid Murray), Country University Centre, Yarkuwa Indigenous Knowledge Centre, Hay LALC, Nari Nari Tribal Council, and Hay Children’s services.
The Pottinger Energy Park Community Benefits Program will deliver at least $26 million in direct support for the community over the next 30 years. In addition the project plans to deliver tens of millions of dollars in indirect benefits through new job and local business opportunities.
Jamie Chivers, Managing Director of Someva Renewables said: “As we come to the end of a significant year for Pottinger Energy Park, the project continues to demonstrate how it will provide a major long-term boost to the prosperity of the Riverina. From the outset, this project has been about working with the local community to ensure the benefits of renewable energy are shared throughout the region.
“We’re proud of the deep community support Pottinger Energy Park has received since Someva Renewables and AGL first started meeting face to face with landholders, local councils and the broader community. As we look ahead to another exciting year, I’d like to thank all of those involved in the project to date – including our project hosts and neighbours, local landholders, the Edward River and Hay Shire Councils as well as local First Nations, business and community groups.”
A note from the Pottinger Energy Park team
We would like to wish everyone a joyful holiday period, and a happy, healthy New Year. Thank you for your continued support and partnership throughout 2025 – we look forward to another successful year of working alongside the community and delivering real benefits to the region.
Contact us
If you would like to find out further information on Pottinger Energy Park, you can reach out to the Someva team on 0428 208 795, or community@someva.com.au.
For media inquiries, contact:
Chris Williams – 0480 386 879 / chris@kaizenco.au
Ben Hornbrook – 0431 180 161 / ben@kaizenco.au
