Mackenzie River Solar Farm and BESS
The Mackenzie River Solar Farm and BESS will create employment training opportunities, and drive local investment, while supporting Queensland to meet its renewable energy targets.
About this project
British Solar Renewables proposed development extends over two private properties on the Fitzroy Developmental Road in Mackenzie River, Queensland Australia.
The proposed development includes a Solar Farm and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), feeding power into the local network through an existing transmission line within the project site.
The proposed development has the capacity to power approximately 150,000 average Australian homes each year with renewable energy, while creating local employment and supply chain opportunities for the surrounding community.
British Solar Renewables is currently undertaking detailed design and development application preparation with the intent to have the solar farm operational in 2031.
See how our project timeline progresses and what we do
Timeline
British Solar Renewable have completed feasibility studies and are now preparing a Development Application including specialist studies, a Social Impact Assessment (SIA) and preparing to negotiate a Community Benefit Agreement (CBA) with Issac Regional Council.
Identify & survey
Finding suitable land and grid connections.
Engage & tailor
Working with local authorities, parish councils, and communities to shape proposals responsibly.
Approvals & construct
Securing planning permission and delivering projects to the highest standards.
Operate & steward
Long-term management, biodiversity initiatives, and a “leave no trace” approach.
Working with and for communities
At British Solar Renewables, we collaborate with communities to deliver clean energy that supports both local needs and increases the availability of renewable energy.
We will be working with the local community, increasing local employment, and supporting education, training, and local economic growth. We are also collaborating with the Isaac Regional Council to create a Community Benefit Agreement, driving the way we invest profits back into the Mackenzie River community.
Throughout the development of the proposed Solar Farm and Battery Energy Storage System, we will work closely with:
- Local landowners and councils to ensure responsible land use and minimal disruption.
- Community and environmental groups to keep residents informed and engaged.
- Regional businesses and suppliers to create local job opportunities and strengthen the regional economy.
Influence our planning
As a Community focused company, British Solar Renewables is committed to working with the Mackenzie River community in the spirit of care, openness, and collaboration. We want to create community and environmental benefit while supporting the region’s transition to renewable energy.
From early planning through to the end of the project’s lifecycle, we will be listening to the community’s feedback. We will use your feedback to identify and implement improvements to the way we design, construct, and manage the project.
Share your feedback
We’re currently undertaking community consultation as part of our Social Impact Assessment which will support our Development Application
Between January and June 2026, we’re undertaking community consultation. Your feedback will help us identify potential impacts on communities and propose meaningful, monitorable responses that can inform project approvals and long-term community benefits.
Community feedback is integral to improving the delivery of our project and supporting our community. We’re interested in feedback relating to the design, construction, and operation of the Mackenzie River Solar Farm, as well as the development of BSR’s Community Benefit Agreement, which will shape our ongoing investment into the Mackenzie River community.
Visit our drop-in information sessions
Come join us out the front of the IGA at Middlemount to learn about the project and share your thoughts.
- Tuesday 17 Feb 2026, 3pm to 7pm
- Wednesday 18 Feb 2026, 3pm to 7pm
- Mon 23 Mar 2026, 3pm to 7pm
- Tues 24 Mar 2026, 3pm to 7pm
We are also running interviews and workshops with targeted stakeholders in the area.
Formal feedback submissions can also be emailed to here
Protecting nature and cultural heritage
We acknowledge the Barada Kabalbara Yetimarala (BKY) People as the Traditional Owners of the project area and recognise their unique knowledge and expertise in the long-term management, protection and conservation of their Cultural Heritage and Cultural Landscape.
We are committed to working closely with local First Nations communities throughout project delivery. We formalised this commitment in October 2025 through establishing a Cultural Heritage Agreement, and a Sharing of Project Benefits Agreement with the Bulgan Tara Yanal Aboriginal Corporation.
Together with our project’s relationship committee, we will create opportunities for BKY People to:
Together with our project’s relationship committee, we will create opportunities for BKY People to participate in meaningful economic, cultural, environmental, activities that strengthen community involvement and long‑term partnership.
FAQ’s
What is the Mackenzie River Solar Farm and BESS project?
Why was this location chosen for the Mackenzie River Solar Farm project?
How long will the project operate?
Does the solar farm increase noise or traffic in the area?
Does the solar farm affect the environment?
What is BSR doing to protect cultural heritage in the region?
How will the site be accessed by construction and maintenance workers?
Register for project updates
To receive regular updates about the Mackenzie River Solar Farm and BESS project, register your contact information through the form below.