Early works for the Hunter the Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) have begun, as Ausgrid kicks off community consultations in the region.
The New South Wales Government said that this will be the first REZ in Australia to upgrade existing distribution poles and wires, to minimise impact on surrounding communities and the environment. The proposed upgrades will facilitate more than 1GW of energy into the grid.
Ausgrid has been appointed by the State Government as the preferred network operator to design, build, finance, operate and maintain the network infrastructure for the Hunter-Central Coast REZ.
Ausgrid is holding drop-in sessions in Singleton, Muswellbrook and online to discuss the project and hear feedback from community members, with more opportunities for engagement to come.
Ausgrid has also begun early works for the project in the Upper Hunter to finalise its design for regulatory and environmental planning approvals.
The New South Wales Government said that construction will create an estimated 175 jobs including roles for engineers, electricians and labourers.
According to the State Government, by fast-tracking the connection of new renewable energy projects, the Hunter-Central Coast REZ will play a critical role in ensuring a reliable supply of power to homes and businesses and putting downward pressure on bills. It will also help New South Wales meet its 2030 renewable energy and net zero targets.
To date, around 35 per cent of New South Wales’ electricity comes from renewable energy.
To celebrate this milestone, New South Wales Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Penny Sharpe, visited an electrical substation slated for upgrades under the Hunter-Central Coast REZ.
“This will be the first renewable energy zone to replace lower-capacity powerlines with higher capacity ones – we’re essentially putting fatter lines on the poles – which will reduce the impact on the community and the environment,” Ms Sharpe said.
“The start of community consultation is another milestone in the transformation of the state’s energy system. It’s great to be in the region to see how this project will deliver critical energy for New South Wales households and businesses.”
Ausgrid Group Executive Transmission Development and Growth, Kelly Wood, said that Ausgrid is committed to working with landholders and EnergyCo to finalise details of the design, with the aim of minimising impacts and maximising benefits for the local communities.
“We are proud to see our people bringing this project to life, supporting the communities they and their families live in,” Ms Wood said.
