Hall & Wilcox advises on sale of Upper Hunter pumped hydro projects to AGL

Hall & Wilcox has advised on the sale of two early-stage pumped hydro energy storage projects held by Upper Hunter Hydro Top Trust and its trustee (UHH) to AGL.

The Glenbawn and Glennies Creek projects are located in the Hunter region of New South Wales. The projects once developed, and on current designs, are expected to provide 770 MW 10-hour and 623 MW 10-hour pumped hydro energy storage capacity respectively, with potential for integrated wind generation. Following the sale, Turnbull Renewables will continue to support the development of the projects.

Pumped hydro energy storage plays a critical role in Australia’s clean energy transition. These assets will help balance supply and demand by storing excess renewable energy for use during periods of high electricity demand or low generation – improving grid stability and supporting decarbonisation. 

The Hall & Wilcox team was led by Partner Michelle Eastwell, supported by Partner Mark Montag and Senior Associates Chris Wright and Stephanie Francis and Lawyers Jordan Beveridge and Grace Davey. The firm provided comprehensive support across all aspects of the transaction.

Michelle Eastwell said, ‘Our team was delighted to support the sale of these two strategically important pumped hydro projects. Long duration storage plays a vital role in Australia’s future energy mix, enabling more reliable integration of renewable power and supporting the shift to net zero.’

This transaction highlights Hall & Wilcox’s growing expertise in the renewable energy and infrastructure sector, and the firm’s ability to deliver commercially minded legal solutions for complex, future-focused projects.