Outback Astronomy

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Hydrostor Silver City Energy Storage project

The Court upheld the appeal and Hydrostor (A-CAES NSW Pty Ltd) has new noise and light conditions following the NSW Land and Environment Court’s ruling

The NSW Land and Environment Court has issued a new, court‑approved consent for the Hydrostor Silver City Energy Storage System (Hydrostor SCES), strengthening protections for Broken Hill’s night sky, tourism experience, and local amenity. The updated conditions introduce clearer safeguards for lighting and noise, require real‑world monitoring at Outback Astronomy, and ensure ongoing consultation throughout construction and operation. These changes create a more transparent, accountable framework that supports both regional development and the long‑term preservation of our dark‑sky environment.

More Information

Strengthening protection for our night sky

Click here for more information and an overview of the consent changes

Media Release

Click here to view Outback Astronomy media release (26-March-2026) (pdf)

Land and Environment Court Judgement

Click here to view the Land & Environment Court Judgement (pdf)

Updated Consent Conditions

Click here to view updated Determination Consent Conditions (pdf)

Consent Conditions comparison

Click here to view marked up changes from original condition to new (pdf)

Outback Astronomy Blog

Click here to read the Outback Astronomy Blog - a new chapter