OX2 has now received Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) approval. From here, they’ll progress on building the 135 megawatt (MW) Muswellbrook solar and storage project in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. Terraform’s ambitious project will be located adjacent to the recently decommissioned Muswellbrook coal mine. The mine ceased operations in 2022 and is largely owned by Idemitsu Australia.
The Muswellbrook solar project is an important beginning in the region’s journey on the energy front. Yet, it is one of the first to repurpose coal mining land into renewable energy generation. This partnership is an important test case for the rest of the region’s transition from fossil fuels. Through this thoughtful planning, the project is set to play a substantial role in growing the local economy and advancing smart growth.
Project Management and Timeline
In addition to assuming the technical management of the facility, OX2 assumed commercial management (including marketing and sales) and financial management. This new facility, which started commercial production in the summer of 2022, OX2 is enthusiastic about developing renewable energy solutions in Australia. Its robust pipeline spans 3.7 gigawatts (GW) of projects in solar power, wind energy, and long-duration, as well as short-duration, energy storage—all at various stages of development and/or construction.
OX2 Australia’s country manager Stephen Symons said the company was proud to see progress being made on their projects around the country.
“I’m proud to see the continued progress of our projects in Australia. These approvals reflect the strength and professionalism of our team, as well as the growing momentum behind renewable energy across the country.” – Stephen Symons
Transition from Coal to Renewable Energy
The Muswellbrook solar project serves as a leading example of how regions traditionally reliant on coal mining can transition to innovative post-mining land uses. Catherine Way, OX2 Australia’s development director, highlighted the importance of this development in the broader context of regional energy transformation.
“This is a leading example of the transition of the Upper Hunter Valley from coal mining to innovative post-mining land uses. The Muswellbrook solar project is an early mover in the re-purposing of a coal mine into an energy generation site and serves as an important test case for the broader region.” – Catherine Way
Future Prospects
This recent EPBC approval is OX2’s second project to win clearance in Australia. The first of these was Cypress Creek Renewables’ Summerville solar and storage project, which was approved back in July 2025. With 390 MW currently under supervision, OX2 continues to expand its management services specifically for renewable assets throughout the country.
The approval not only highlights OX2’s commitment to advancing renewable energy initiatives but reflects a broader shift towards sustainability in regions historically dominated by coal mining. The innovative Muswellbrook solar project could help pave the way for similar projects to follow suit. It’s a great example of how we can successfully repurpose post-mining landscapes into productive clean energy assets.