The first stage of the Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone network infrastructure project is now complete. The milestone means new renewable energy projects are one step closer to connecting to the grid.
EnergyCo has commissioned Ausgrid to upgrade its distribution network and unlock 1GW of network capacity in the region by 2028.
This first stage will deliver 350MW of extra capacity, which represents more than a third of the total additional capacity needed for the Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone (REZ).
“EnergyCo welcomes the completion of this important milestone and reinforces that construction is underway to ensure the Hunter will continue to play a critical role in powering NSW,” said EnergyCo Chief Executive Hannah McCaughey.
“With these works complete, it will provide greater certainty to renewable energy generators to connect to the Hunter-Central Coast REZ by 2028.”
Stage 1 works include new fibre optic communications to link Muswellbrook Switching Station, Muswellbrook Bulk Supply Point, and Mitchell Line Switching Station. This upgrade builds on existing infrastructure, enabling a smarter, more efficient Upper Hunter electricity network with minimal new construction.
“We’re proud of the progress our teams have already made to get the network ready for new connections. It’s another step towards delivering more affordable, reliable power for customers across the Hunter,” said Ausgrid CEO Marc England.
The Hunter-Central Coast Network Infrastructure Project is the first REZ project to upgrade existing distribution poles and wires instead of building all new transmission lines.
This REZ is expected to create 590 jobs during construction, with a further 220 secure local jobs once operational.
The network infrastructure project will connect an additional 1.8GW of new renewable generation and storage projects.
It includes upgrading approximately 85km sub-transmission lines, installing 18km of new underground fibre optic communications cable, building two new energy hubs in Muswellbrook LGA (Sandy Creek and Antiene), and upgrading existing substations.
