Springvale Modification 5

About Springvale Mine

Springvale Mine (Springvale) is an underground coal mine located approximately 12 kilometres (km) north-west of Lithgow. The pit top at Springvale is located 3 km east of the township of Wallerawang and is accessible from Castlereagh Highway.

Springvale is owned by Centennial Coal Company Limited via wholly owned a joint venture consisting of Springvale Pty Limited (Centennial Springvale) and Boulder Mining Pty Limited with Springvale Coal Pty Limited (Springvale Coal) being the mine operator.

Springvale is approved to operate under development consent SSD 5594, granted in September 2015. 

Key Facts

  • Springvale is an existing underground coal mine that has been in operation since 1995.
  • Springvale is approved to extract up to 5.5 million tonnes of coal per year until 31 December 2028.
  • Mining at Springvale is undertaken using longwall mining methods.
  • Springvale is the main supplier of coal to Mt Piper Power Station, which provides up to 12 % of energy produced in NSW
  • Springvale is approved to employ up to 450 full time employees
  • Springvale operates 24 hours, 7 days a week. 

Springvale Modification 5

Centennial Coal is proposing a new SSD project which will allow Springvale to continue to coal supply to Mt Piper Power Station beyond its currently consented life. The project is known as Springvale West.

While there is a transition to renewable energy generation currently underway, coal continues to support power generation in NSW, with Mt Piper Power Station an important contributor to baseload generation. Coal supplies will be needed to maintain the ongoing operation of Mt Piper Power Station through to its planned closure. The project will maintain Centennial Coal’s ability to supply coal to Mt Piper Power Station.

The Springvale Mine Extension Project Mod 5 proposes a continuation of underground coal mining within an additional area to ensure stable, reliable supply of high‑quality thermal coal beyond the current 2028 approval period. The modification supports long‑term planning for Springvale by facilitating ongoing extraction in two new mining areas, using existing mine infrastructure and established operational systems.

Mod 5 provides a low‑impact, practical pathway to extend the mine’s operational life by approximately four years, to 2032. The project aims to maintain business continuity, support the energy needs of Mt Piper Power Station (MPPS), and strengthen regional economic stability, while balancing social, environmental and economic considerations.

By leveraging existing mine workings, infrastructure and environmental controls, the proposed modification achieves efficient resource recovery with minimal new surface disturbance. The approach aligns with Centennial’s long-standing commitment to responsible operations, environmental stewardship, and ongoing investment in local communities.

Key Features of the Project

Mining methods: Bord and pillar mining using a combination of partial pillar and first workings extraction techniques. Low‑impact mine design that minimises subsidence and protects surface environments. Continued use of existing underground access and the Springvale pit-top facilities.

Employment: Workforce maintained through continued operations. Supports stable employment in the Lithgow region by extending mine life and operational certainty. Supports ongoing local employment and skills retention in the Lithgow region. Provides indirect jobs across supply chains, contractors and local service providers.

Project life: Mod 5 provides a four‑year life extension, shifting approved operations from 2028 to 2032. 

Economic contribution: Ensures continuity of coal supply to Mt Piper Power Station, supporting regional energy security.  Sustains local jobs, contractor engagement and regional economic activity. Strengthens long-term operational certainty for Centennial’s Western Operations.

Environmental management: No new surface infrastructure required—minimises additional disturbance. 

Project Status

Completed
DPHI engagement and agreement of Modification requirements
In Progress
Prepare Modification Report Stakeholder and Community Consultation
In Progress
Modification Report Submission and Exhibition
Pending
Response to Submissions
Pending
DPHI Assessment Report
Pending
Minister determination - Approval or Refused

Community Consultation

Centennial Coal believes that successful projects are built on collaboration and understanding. That’s why we’re committed to engaging with the community throughout every stage of our development projects.

Community consultation is at the heart of our approach, as we recognise the invaluable insights and perspectives that residents, businesses, and stakeholders bring to the table. By fostering open dialogue and transparent communication, we ensure that our projects meet regulatory requirements and align with the needs and aspirations of the communities we serve. 

Stay in the loop

Contact

approvals@centennialcoal.com.au

0436 034 401

Ron Bush
General Manager
Development & Approvals