A former North Nowra landfill could be transformed into a community renewable energy hub after Council endorsed a draft plan of management for the site at its meeting on Tuesday 28 July.
The draft plan of management identifies the site as a suitable location for renewable energy infrastructure, including a solar array and battery storage system.
This initiative aligns with a broader national movement to repurpose closed landfill sites for renewable energy generation. In addition to supporting clean energy production, the project is expected to deliver community benefits, with the specific model to be determined as the project develops.
The proposal presents an opportunity for Council to transform a long-term liability into a productive community asset that provides environmental, economic, and social benefits.
The 11.36 ha site was used for waste disposal from the 1950s until West Nowra Recycling & Waste Depot opened in 1979. The site was then remediated and a 2-metre permanent clay cap placed over the landfill area in 2014.
The NSW Government appointed Council as manager of the Crown Land in 2019, and the land was classified as community purposes, electricity generation and supply.
Shoalhaven Water Director, Andrew McVey said the site was a large open space close to residential areas that couldn't be used for any other purpose.
"This is about turning unused land into an asset for the community. The aim is to lease the site out to a renewal energy provider," Mr McVey said.
"This will provide both a tangible renewable energy benefit for residents and generate income for Council that can be reinvested back into the community," he said.
Council has consulted with Crown Lands and the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) in preparing the draft plan of management.
While the aim is to repurpose a constrained site, there are statutory processes involving Council and Crown Lands that includes two rounds of consultation that must be completed before the land can be used for an energy hub.
Council will receive a further report if significant submissions are received prior to the plan of management for the site being adopted.
Once the plan is approved, Council can then seek suitable leaseholders to install and operate renewable energy infrastructure at the site.
