MYTILINEOS, global industrial and energy powerhouse, proudly celebrates the activation of the Wyalong Solar Farm in the Riverina region of New South Wales. This marks a significant milestone in MYTILINEOS' commitment to renewable energy and supports NBN Co's ambition to achieve 100% renewable electricity purchases by December 2025.
Spanning a vast 260 hectares and adorned with approximately 127,000 solar panels, the Wyalong Solar Farm stands as a symbol of sustainable energy generation. Its capacity is substantial, producing enough electricity to power the equivalent of 27,000 Australian homes. NBN Co has entered into a contract to acquire approximately 90 Gigawatt hours per annum, representing 62% of the solar farm's anticipated output. This strategic move bolsters NBN Co's drive to fulfill its goal of sourcing exclusively renewable energy by the end of 2025.
The successful realization of the Wyalong Solar Farm, operated by MYTILINEOS Energy & Metals, is the result of NBN Co's first Renewable Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). Established in Greece in 1990, MYTILINEOS Energy & Metals is a multinational company with a consolidated turnover of €6.3 billion and EBITDA of €823 million. Since its entry into the Australian market in 2019, MYTILINEOS has acquired, developed, and constructed multiple renewable energy and energy storage projects across Australia. This aligns with MYTILINEOS' global Renewable Energy Sources portfolio, which currently exceeds 13GW in various developmental stages. In Australia, the portfolio comprises six sites in New South Wales and Queensland, each with capacities ranging from 30 to 110 MW.
Ian Kirkham, General Manager, Oceania Region, MYTILINEOS Energy & Metals, said: “We take immense pleasure in formally inaugurating our first project with NBN Co here in New South Wales. With approximately 200MW of operational plants and investments exceeding $500 million in our Australian projects, MYTILINEOS is committed to advancing its path in renewables here in Australia. Our project pipeline continues to expand, reflecting our long-term commitment to this region. We want to thank the Greater Wiradjuri Country as the traditional custodians of the land, our esteemed offtaker NBN Co, the supportive Bland Shire Council, as well as our dedicated contractors and consultants who contributed their expertise to the project.”
The construction phase of the Wyalong Solar Farm generated approximately 150 local jobs, providing a significant boost to the local economy. As the facility transitions to full operational status in the coming months, it will play a pivotal role in facilitating greater penetration of renewables into the grid. This contribution aligns with Australia's national target of achieving 82% renewable energy penetration into the grid by 2030, a crucial milestone on the path to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
