As expressions of interest (EOI) close, EnergyCo’s search for the network operator for the New England Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) has garnered strong market interest.
EOIs for the project have been submitted by six consortia, with the successful network operator set to design, construct, finance, operate and maintain the new transmission lines and related infrastructure – such as energy hubs – that will connect the REZ to New South Wales homes and businesses.
EnergyCo Chief Executive, Hannah McCaughey, said, “We are pleased to be progressing the selection of a network operator that not only brings technical expertise and financial strength but also understands the importance of working with local people.
“Long-term relationships with landowners, regional communities and First Nations groups are at the heart of this process, and we’re looking for a network operator who shares that vision.
“This milestone also puts us on the path to unlocking significant private sector investment for the region.”
EnergyCo received EOIs from:
- Aura Networks – comprising Plenary, Alupar, Webuild, FCC Construction
- Future Energy Networks – comprising AusNet, Pacific Partnerships, GS, Hyundai, Ghella, CPB Contractors, UGL
- NewLeaf Energy – comprising Iberdrola, Capella Capital, Gamuda, Samsung C&T, Ferrovial, Genus Infrastructure
- Powergrid Corporation of India
- Rezult Networks – comprising ACCIONA and COBRA
- Verta Energy – comprising EDF Australia
New England REZ Project Director, Doug Parris, said it’s great to see such strong market interest in this project.
“It brings us one step closer to delivering a new, reliable energy system that will keep the lights on in New South Wales with lasting regional benefits,” he said.
The EOI stage is one part of a highly interactive procurement process – one of the biggest of its kind in New South Wales – designed to foster collaboration between EnergyCo and industry to deliver greater certainty, improved productivity and overall value-for-money outcomes.
With the EOI stage now complete, EnergyCo will evaluate all submissions and shortlist two to three applicants to progress to the request for proposal stage later this year.
For more details on the network operator procurement process visit energyco.nsw.gov.au/ne/network-operator
