Project Updates
Project Update – August 2026
Welcome to the latest update on the Upper Hunter Energy Park. As the project continues through its planning and development phase, we would like to share progress across a few key areas.
In this post, we share an update on Ausgrid’s determination of the Review of Environmental Factors for the proposed 66 kV overhead power line, introduce the project’s Community Consultative Committee, and report on the bird and bat surveys that are helping to inform project planning.
We thank you for your continued interest in the Upper Hunter Energy Park, and we look forward to keeping in touch as the project progresses.
→ Ausgrid determines REF for proposed 66 kV power line
Ausgrid has determined the Review of Environmental Factors (REF) and approved the proposed 66 kV overhead power line to proceed without further environmental assessment. The approval is subject to the mitigation measures and other requirements identified in the determination.
For Upper Hunter Energy Park, the REF considered potential impacts on nearby landholders, traffic, noise and dust, vegetation and wildlife, waterways and soil, Aboriginal and historic heritage, and the surrounding rural landscape.
The transmission line will be subject to the mitigation measures contained in the REF, along with any other required licences, permits and authorisations before associated construction begins.
Read the REF Determination Report and Approval
→ Community Consultative Committee established
The project’s Community Consultative Committee (CCC) was established earlier this year and has now held two meetings. The CCC brings together community, Council and project representatives to share project updates, discuss local issues and provide feedback as planning progresses.
The first two meetings covered the project’s status, environmental studies, transmission planning, community engagement and potential local procurement opportunities. Members also shared suggestions about information the wider community may find useful.
Minutes and presentations are available on the project website:
UHEP CCC Meeting – Minutes & Presentation – 2 April 2026
UHEP CCC Meeting – Minutes & Presentation – 30 June 2026
→ Bird and bat surveys inform project planning
Two years of bird and bat surveys are building a detailed picture of wildlife activity across the project area. A draft Bird and Bat Adaptive Management Plan has been submitted to the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) for review.
CCC members highlighted the importance of combining technical studies with local knowledge. In particular, the committee discussed local observations of Wedge-tailed Eagles and their cultural significance as a totem of the Wanaruah people.
At Upper Hunter Energy Park, careful planning and genuine engagement go hand in hand. This edition reflects that approach, from the environmental assessment behind the proposed 66 kV overhead line, to the establishment of the Community Consultative Committee, and the ongoing bird and bat surveys that continue to build our understanding of local wildlife.
Each of these steps is part of finalising a project that respects the local environment, listens to the community, and delivers renewable energy for the Upper Hunter. Combining technical studies with local knowledge and feedback remains central to how the project takes shape.
We remain committed to keeping the community informed as the project progresses, and we look forward to sharing further updates as planning continues.
Get Involved
The Project is expected to be operational for 25+ years. This long-term commitment ensures we continue to create employment opportunities during the operating and maintenance stages of the Project.