News

Green Belt Energy, a new joint venture between Energy Estate and Efficacy Advisors, is progressing development of its first project located in the Central West region of New South Wales.

The Hargraves Energy Project is a large-scale renewable energy development located near the village of Hargraves, which is approximately 39km south-west of Mudgee in the Mid-Western Regional Council LGA.

The project site is on Wiradjuri People country and a short distance south of the Central West Orana Renewable Energy Zone.

The proposed project capacity combines 500 MW of wind, 350 MW of solar PV, and 200 MW / 800 MWh battery storage, subject to final design confirmation.

Several options are being considered for grid connection, including connection to existing 330kV and 500kV transmission lines.

The current layout of up to 64 wind turbines coupled with solar and agrivoltaics will enable both the generation of renewable energy and the continuity of existing agricultural production within the project area, enhancing farming resilience and sustainability.

Chief Projects Officer and Co-Founder Simon Currie said, “Green Belt Energy is committed to delivering regional economic outcomes and supporting existing and future regional industries. We intend to build on the legacy of gold and wool production in this area and help to attract new industries to the Central West region.”

Project Director Mark Richards said, “Our team brings extensive and relevant regional experience to Hargraves - ensuring we support local economic development goals, foster resilience and create pathways for sustainable industries. We are collaborating with communities and stakeholders and tailoring solutions that will have a lasting positive impact across the region.”

Hargraves Energy Project is in the feasibility stage, with construction targeted to begin in 2029.

Hargraves is one of a portfolio of renewable energy and storage projects being developed by Green Belt Energy in regional New South Wales and Queensland.

Currie said Green Belt Energy was focused on developing renewable energy, storage and transmission projects in a region between the Western Downs in Queensland and Central West in NSW.    

“We are building on our combined experience accelerating the development of renewable energy zones such as New England and Central Queensland”, he said.  

Green Belt Energy has assembled a team with experience successfully developing large scale projects including Central Queensland Power around Gladstone, the Walcha Energy Project and Bendemeer projects in NSW’s New England REZ, and various other renewable energy, hydrogen and ammonia projects around Australia and New Zealand.       

Energy Estate is proud to be a signatory to the Energy Charter and champion of the #BetterTogether initiatives between energy businesses, customers and communities that deliver tangible customer and community outcomes.