To empower people living in the Hunter region to shape critical renewable energy-related projects in their area, EnergyCo has extended it’s community forum.
EnergyCo is expanding the Hunter Transmission Project’s Regional Reference Group (RRG) into a broader Hunter-Central Coast RRG.
This change is designed to reflect the portfolio of EnergyCo projects in the Hunter and ensure the region’s voice will continue to inform future energy infrastructure.
Formed in early 2024, the Regional Reference Group (RRG) plays an important role in connecting EnergyCo with environment and community groups, industry, training organisations, local government and other stakeholders as part of the Hunter Transmission Project (HTP).
EnergyCo is now working across five major projects in the Hunter and Central Coast and an expanded RRG will help guide their planning and delivery.
The new Hunter-Central Coast RRG brings together stakeholders from across the region and creates a space for shared engagement on key projects, including: The Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) The Hunter Transmission Project (HTP) The Newcastle Logistics Precinct The Waratah Super Battery The Port to REZ road network upgrades. The region includes the local government areas of Upper Hunter, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Newcastle, Port Stephens, Cessnock, Mid-Coast, Singleton, Dungog, Muswellbrook and Central Coast.
EnergyCo Chief Executive, Hannah McCaughey, said that the Hunter region is at the heart of the energy transition in New South Wales.
“The Hunter-Central Coast Regional Reference Group provides a platform for collaborative and meaningful engagement across all our projects,” she said.
RRG Independent Chair, Bob Pynsent, said the group helps ensure local voices continue to be heard and have a say in shaping these important projects. “The Hunter-Central Coast RRG will continue to work with
EnergyCo to provide advice, share local knowledge and help identify opportunities that could benefit the community. This group plays a vital role in supporting the state’s renewable energy transition while also providing a regional connection to ensure the delivery of real outcomes for the Hunter,” he said.
