The Energy Corporation of NSW (EnergyCo) is calling for registrations of interest for a network operator to help deliver the New England Renewable Energy Zone (REZ).
EnergyCo said it is seeking a partner to help deliver and operate the New England REZ network to meet the New South Wales Government’s vision set out in the New South Wales Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap.
This is the first step of the competitive procurement process and the successful network operator will design, construct, finance, operate and maintain the network infrastructure.
EnergyCo said it is seeking a long-term partner with a strong operational focus, who brings a whole-of-life approach to the design, delivery and operation of the new infrastructure, including working collaboratively with generation and storage projects.
The successful proponent will have demonstrated capability building and operating high voltage transmission networks.
The network operator will play a key role in the success of the New England REZ and will be expected to have early and positive engagement with communities, First Nations people, local councils, landowners and other stakeholder groups, including earning trust and establishing long-term relationships.
An industry briefing will be held on Thursday 27 March 2025 for potential bidders to gain a better understanding of the process and the role of the network operator.
The procurement process will be carried out in parallel with EnergyCo’s ongoing work with landowners and the community, as well as environmental investigations, as EnergyCo continues to refine the REZ network infrastructure project.
For more details on the network operator procurement process visit energyco.nsw.gov.au/ne/network-operator.
EnergyCo CEO, Hannah McCaughey, said that finding the right network operator for the New England REZ will help EnergyCo deliver reliable energy for New South Wales.
“We are confident the market will deliver a strong network operator with demonstrated experience in capability building and operating high voltage transmission networks,” she said.
New England REZ Project Director, Doug Parris, said, “EnergyCo’s focus is on delivering the New England REZ, and to do so, it’s essential that we find a strong network operator who will help us connect new renewable energy projects to electricity consumers, with a focus on building long-term relationships with landowners and local communities.”
