Renewables Boost NSW Water Supply with Hunter Water's Solar Farm Project

Hunter Water's Balickera Water Pump Station has taken a major step towards sustainability by tapping into its newly completed 3.1MW solar farm. This renewable energy project powers the station's large pumps and water assets, significantly reducing operating costs and environmental impact.

The solar farm, featuring approximately 5,500 ground-mounted panels spread across three hectares near the Balickera Canal, is Hunter Water’s latest achievement in boosting renewable energy. With this installation, Hunter Water’s total renewable energy capacity now exceeds 6MW.

Darren Cleary, Managing Director of Hunter Water, estimates that the project will save the company around $700,000 per year in energy costs. “Electricity is one of our largest operational expenses, making up about ten per cent of our costs. Generating our own power from solar energy helps reduce these expenses and cuts down on carbon emissions,” Cleary said.

The solar energy generated will feed directly into Hunter Water's high voltage transmission network, powering critical water infrastructure, including the Grahamstown Water Treatment Plant and Tomago borefields. This setup ensures a more sustainable and cost-effective energy supply for essential services in the Lower Hunter region.

Hunter Water has placed a strong emphasis on environmental stewardship throughout the project. More than 1,500 trees, shrubs, and ground cover were planted to offset the removal of 70 trees for the solar array, with another 1,500 plants scheduled for future planting. Logs from the removed trees have been repurposed as habitats for native wildlife, while remaining vegetation was mulched and reused on-site.

“This project is about more than renewable energy—it’s about creating positive environmental and community impact. We’re excited to share these benefits with our region,” Cleary noted. A small park adjacent to the solar farm is also being developed as a space for visitors and tour groups.

Hunter Water continues to invest in renewable energy with plans to install an additional 450kW of solar capacity across three sites by early 2025. A 450kW solar site and a 300kW battery storage system are also being planned for Cessnock.

As businesses and industries make the shift toward cleaner energy, EServices4u is here to support your journey. Whether you need solar panel installations, energy audits, or battery storage solutions, our experts can tailor solutions to reduce costs and boost sustainability. Join the renewable revolution with EServices4u and take control of your energy future. Visit www.eservices4u.com.au today to learn more.