Dinawan Solar Farm Public Hearing: Dates, Deadlines & $35M Benefit Plan 

In Short

• Public Hearing: The IPC will meet at Coleambally Community Hall on Feb 27; speakers must register by Feb 17.

• The Stake: The project includes 750,000 solar modules and a 300MW battery, with a 105-turbine wind stage following in Q1 2026.

• Local Impact: A proposed $35 million benefit fund includes a 70/30 split for capital projects and neighbour electricity rebates.

The future of the Riverina’s energy landscape is moving into a critical phase this month as the Independent Planning Commission (IPC) prepares to descend on Coleambally for a public meeting regarding the Dinawan Solar Farm.

The meeting, scheduled for February 27 at the Coleambally Community Hall, is the last chance for locals to voice their opinions on the 300-megawatt solar portion of the massive Dinawan Energy Hub (DEH). 

Developed by Spark Renewables, the project sits between Coleambally and Jerilderie and is poised to become one of the region’s most significant industrial footprints.

The Solar Proposal

While the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) has already recommended the solar farm for approval, the final word rests with the IPC. 

Residents wishing to speak at the 10:00 AM meeting must register by noon on February 17. For those who prefer the pen to the podium, written submissions will be accepted until March 5.

If approved, the solar farm will see roughly 750,000 solar modules installed, contributing to a project that also includes a 300MW battery storage system.

Wind Farm Updates on the Horizon

While solar is currently in the spotlight, the wind component of the hub—featuring 105 turbines reaching tip heights of 250 meters—is not far behind. 

Spark Renewables expects the DPHI to release its assessment report and recommended conditions for the Wind Farm within the first quarter of 2026.

Where is the Money Going?

With a project of this scale comes significant capital and significant community scrutiny regarding benefit sharing. 

Spark Renewables has said it expects a total contribution of approximately $35 million over the first 15 years through the South West REZ access fee.

The proposed Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) outlines a 70/30 split for the funds. 

The lion's share (70%) is earmarked for Critical Capital Projects in the Murrumbidgee and Edward River Council areas. 

The remaining 30% will be divided between a Community Benefit Fund, an Aboriginal Community Fund, and a Neighbour Benefit Fund, the latter of which includes a proposed Electricity Rebate Scheme (ERS) for those living closest to the wind turbines.

Help Wanted: Housing the Workers

The project is also seeking partners to tackle one of the region's most pressing issues: housing. Expressions of Interest (EOI) are currently open for the design, supply, and operation of an accommodation village to house the construction workforce.

Local businesses looking to get a slice of the DEH pie are encouraged to register via the ICN Gateway, with Spark Renewables claiming they are committed to local first procurement for services ranging from earthworks to catering.

Important dates:

Feb 16: EOI Closes for Accommodation Village.

Feb 17: Deadline to register to speak at the IPC Meeting.

Feb 27: Public Meeting at Coleambally Community Hall (10:00 AM).

March 5: Deadline for written submissions to the IPC.

For more information on the Dinawan Energy Hub or to register for updates, visit sparkrenewables.com.