Australia’s renewable energy sector received a major boost after Ark Energy secured approval to connect its large-scale Richmond Valley Solar and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project to the electricity grid in New South Wales.
The grid-connection permit was granted by the Australian Energy Market Operator and transmission network operator Transgrid, clearing a key hurdle for the AUD 1.2 billion (USD 845 million) renewable energy development, Renewables Now reported.
Located near Rappville in the Northern Rivers region, the Richmond Valley project will include a 435 MW solar power plant paired with a 475 MW/3,148 MWh battery energy storage system. The facility will be connected to the regional 330-kV transmission network through a new substation and will supply electricity to Australia’s National Electricity Market.
According to the developer, the project is expected to generate enough renewable electricity each year to meet the needs of approximately 175,000 homes, supporting Australia’s transition to cleaner energy sources.
The battery storage component will use lithium-iron-phosphate technology to store solar energy generated during daylight hours and deliver power to the grid during periods of high demand or when solar generation is unavailable. The integrated storage system is expected to enhance grid reliability and support greater renewable energy penetration.
Construction will be carried out in phases, with the first stage scheduled to begin later this year. The initial phase will add 200 MW of solar generation capacity and 275 MW/2,200 MWh of battery storage.
Ark Energy Chief Executive Officer Michael Choi described the grid approval as a major milestone that brings the company closer to achieving financial closure and commencing construction.
The Richmond Valley project previously secured a Long-Term Energy Service Agreement from the New South Wales government in 2023. It also received state approval and federal environmental clearance in late 2025, paving the way for development.
Once operational, the solar and battery complex is expected to become one of Australia’s significant renewable energy projects, contributing to emissions reduction goals, improving energy security and supporting the country’s growing investment in large-scale solar and energy storage infrastructure.
