EnergyCo has engaged Transgrid and Zinfra to deliver key network upgrades for New South Wales’ first renewable energy zone (REZ) to support the state’s renewable transition.
The deed signed between Transgrid and EnergyCo will see Australia’s largest transmission business connect the Central-West Orana REZ to the New South Wales grid and deliver new transmission infrastructure.
Transgrid CEO, Brett Redman, said, “We are proud to be a key partner in delivering the New South Wales Government’s Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap to ensure a more reliable, affordable and sustainable electricity system for millions of consumers across the state.
“The Central-West Orana REZ is the first of five in New South Wales and we are pleased to be working with EnergyCo to deliver new transmission lines and substation upgrades to disperse solar and wind energy from where it is generated to the homes, businesses and industries where it is needed.”
Transgrid has engaged Zinfra as its delivery partner to design and construct the transmission infrastructure works to enable the connection of the Central-West Orana REZ.
Augmentation works will be carried out to the existing Transgrid network to enable increased power flow out of the Central-West Orana REZ and ensure the stable and reliable operation of the energy system.
The $168.5 million contract has been signed by Transgrid CEO, Brett Redman, and Zinfra Managing Director, Peter Iancov.
The works, which will be delivered in the Hunter, Central Tablelands and Central West regions, include:
- A new 1.5km, 330kV transmission line between Bayswater and Liddell in the Hunter region, including upgrading works at two existing substations
- A new 8km, 330kV transmission line between Mount Piper and Wallerawang in the Central Tablelands, including upgrading works at two existing substations
- Transmission line cut-in works into the new Barigan Creek 500kV Switching Station at Wollar in the Central West
“Transgrid has had a long and successful partnership with Zinfra on a range of major projects, including the Queensland to New South Wales Interconnector upgrade, Powering Sydney’s Future and network augmentation to support the New South Wales Government’s Waratah Super Battery,” Mr Redman said.
“We are pleased to once again work with Zinfra on the delivery of essential transmission infrastructure that will deliver more affordable and reliable electricity from the Central-West Orana REZ to consumers.
“Importantly, the project will also generate much-needed jobs and supply contract opportunities for local businesses in these regional communities.”
Zinfra Managing Director, Peter Iancov, said, “We’re proud to continue our successful partnership with Transgrid, leveraging our extensive industry expertise to design and build the transmission infrastructure for the Central-West Orana REZ, driving the future of renewable energy in Australia.
“We take immense pride in making a difference to our communities through ensuring Australia stays connected with cheaper and more reliable energy, while actively supporting the nation’s transition to a sustainable future.”
The Mount Piper to Wallerawang Transmission Line Upgrade Project has been declared Critical State Significant Infrastructure by the New South Wales Government in recognition of its importance in strengthening the electricity grid.
