Powerlink has been appointed as the body to plan, deliver and operate Queensland’s approach to renewable energy zones (REZs), which will see the strategic connection of about 22GW of new grid-scale renewable energy across the state.
With 12 potential REZs across the state, Powerlink will work with landholders and local government help regional communities reap the rewards of renewable energy investment, while supporting jobs, lifestyle and environment.
The REZ Delivery Body is a statutory function that is identified in the Energy (Renewable Transformation and Jobs) Act 2024 (The Energy Act) to assist in the planning, declaration and operation of REZs in Queensland.
Under the Energy Act, the relevant minister can appoint a government entity, regulator body or government agency of the Commonwealth as the REZ Delivery Body. Powerlink has been appointed to fulfil this role as of 30 August 2024.
The key functions that the REZ Delivery Body performs are:
- Provide input to the Queensland Government on future REZ developments (Queensland Renewable Energy Zone Roadmap)
- Make recommendations to the Minister to declare a REZ
- Develop draft and final REZ Management Plans for each REZ to recommend that a REZ to be declared
For more information, visit www.powerlink.com.au/renewable-energy-zone-delivery-body
Featured image: John Gable Photography/shutterstock.com
