The New South Wales Government has awarded a contract to deliver the first stage of the $128 million Port to Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) program, set to pave the way for critical renewable projects in the region.
The program will upgrade key roads and intersections to make it possible to transport the oversized equipment needed to build renewable energy projects in regional New South Wales and leave improved roads for the whole community.
The New South Wales Government is investing $110.5 million to build better roads that benefit communities and support the delivery of vital infrastructure and affordable renewable energy, and the Federal Government is investing another $18 million.
The first stage of works includes upgrades at 19 locations from the Port of Newcastle to Elong Elong near Dubbo, unlocking access to the Central-West Orana REZ.
Australian company BMD Constructions Pty Ltd has been awarded the contract to deliver the works, with construction expected to start by May 2025. The project will create 60 jobs during construction.
The upgrades will include pavement widening, drainage adjustments, new turning lanes and relocation or adjustment of utilities, depending on the location.
Once delivered, the upgrades will benefit all motorists by reducing delay times, easing travel through intersections and improving road safety.
Construction will commence at several locations, including Selwyn Street in Mayfield North, Lonsdale Street in Jerrys Plains, Vinegaroy Road in Cassilis and Barneys Reef Road in Dunedoo.
The New South Wales Government said that many upgrades are expected to be completed in 2025, with the Port to REZ program to continue investigating further works across the state.
New South Wales Minister for Energy, Penny Sharpe, said the contract marks a key milestone in delivering road upgrades from the Hunter to the Central West.
“Renewable energy projects across the state require large components to be moved along our road network, and the upgrades to local roads will improve safety and comfort for all users.”
New South Wales Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley, said the Port to REZ program is an important investment in the region’s future.
“We are building better roads that will not only benefit the community but help deliver critical infrastructure and create local jobs.
“The Hunter has powered the state for decades and this project will help ensure we continue to be an energy powerhouse for further decades to come.”
New South Wales Minister for Roads and Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison, said, “The appointment of a contractor to lead the work to enable the safe movement of wind and solar farm components on the road network is great news.
“These 19 road upgrades will result in greater capacity and a safer road environment from the Port of Newcastle, through the Hunter and then into the Central West where these farms will be located.
“The beneficiaries will be all motorists, not just those driving the oversized loads.”
To view the upgrades at the 19 locations, visit the Port to REZ interactive map.
