About

The Upper Hunter Energy Park represents a forward-thinking initiative aimed at harnessing sustainable energy within the region. Located on Mountain Station, approximately 10-12 km west/northwest of Scone in the Upper Hunter Local Government Area, this project is rooted in a deep respect for the cultural heritage and local traditions of the Hunter Valley. By acknowledging the unique characteristics of the area, including its diverse demographics and land use patterns, the Upper Hunter Energy Park is dedicated to fostering a strong sense of community ownership and delivering tangible benefits to the local population.

At its heart, the Upper Hunter Energy Park is committed to transparency, collaboration, and inclusivity. The project actively engages with a wide range of stakeholders, including local landholders, government agencies, and community groups, to ensure that all voices are heard and considered. Through a variety of engagement methods—such as interviews, surveys, and feedback sessions—the park seeks to gather valuable insights, address concerns, and outline clear pathways for future actions. This structured approach to community involvement is designed to build trust and accountability, ensuring that the park’s development is guided by the needs and aspirations of the local community.

The Upper Hunter Energy Park is more than just an energy project; it is a catalyst for positive social change. The park’s mission extends beyond generating clean energy to creating local job opportunities, fostering skills development, and supporting the broader transition to a sustainable energy landscape. By partnering with organisations like the Moobi Foundation and the Wanaruah Foundation, the project aims to reduce carbon emissions, enhance community well-being, and contribute to a healthier environment for future generations.

The park’s approval, originally granted in January 2010 under the name Kyoto Energy Park, includes a range of infrastructure, such as wind turbines, solar arrays, and a hydro plant. Although financial constraints delayed the initial construction, the project has been revitalised with a focus on optimising its design to minimise environmental impact while maximising efficiency. The current proposal includes reducing the number of wind turbines, relocating key infrastructure, and revising the transmission line route—all of which are being carefully evaluated to ensure the project meets the highest standards of sustainability and community benefit.