News

Mint Renewables is planning to develop a new solar farm and BESS located on a site 6km south-west of Tarago and 17 km north-east of Bungendore in the Southern Tablelands region of NSW.

Pending study results, the Magpie Hill Solar Farm has a potential capacity of approximately 360 MW, with an associated 1440 MWh BESS.

The project site is close to an existing 330kV overhead transmission line.

Mint is investigating an area of about 750 hectares for the new solar farm, however “the final footprint of the Project will depend on planning and environment considerations, grid requirements, the selected technologies and feedback from stakeholders and community”.

On the negative side of the ledger, Mint has cancelled its Wambangalang Wind Farm project proposed for a site 30km west of Wellington in the Dubbo Regional Council and Narromine Shire Council LGAs.

Mint decided to not progress activities at this site after assessing possible routes for transmission lines to connect the up to 500 MW wind farm to the Wellington Sub-station.

Mint said, “One of the key challenges for the Project has been the need to secure a transmission route to the Wellington Substation.

“Since late 2024 we have worked to identify potential transmission line routes to the Wellington Substation and have had many constructive and respectful conversations with local landholders. Despite those efforts, the available route options are limited.

“Mint wishes to thank local landholders and community members for their constructive engagement and support during the feasibility investigations”.

Across the ditch in Aotearoa, Mint appears to be ramping up its New Zealand activities by appointing a Country Manager.

In August last year Mint established a partnership with Ngāi Tahu Holdings, “Mint Aotearoa”, to develop long-term renewable energy projects across New Zealand including wind, solar and storage.

To date no specific projects have been announced.