Armidale Council Rejects 200MW Battery Project Over Community Benefit Dispute

The Armidale council voted to reject the proposed Kooyong Battery Energy Storage System, a 200 MW facility to be built about 6 km east of the town along Waterfall Way. The project, put forward by Edify Energy, was conditionally refused because the developer did not agree to contribute to the New England Future Fund, which the council says is required under its community‑benefit sharing framework.

Mayor Sam Coupland and other council members warned the developer of “short‑changing” the region, noting that while the scheme could create roughly 70 construction jobs, it would provide only three full‑time positions during its 30‑year operation. Council staff recommended rejection, and councilors described the negotiation approach as “gunslingers trying to shake down the sheriff.” The decision underscores the push for renewable projects to deliver tangible benefits to local communities.