NSW is powering ahead to become a clean energy superpower with the New England Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) transmission project declared as Critical State Significant Infrastructure (CSSI).
The declaration means the project is considered essential to the state for economic, environmental or social reasons.
The transmission project is a critical energy project for NSW that will ensure energy security for the state while also providing clean and reliable electricity to consumers for generations to come.
The declaration recognises the essential role the project will play in keeping the lights on for businesses and communities across the state as well as the critical role in accelerating the shift away from fossil fuels.
The New England REZ is expected to deliver up to $10.7 billion in private sector investment and support around 1,250 jobs in the region.
A scoping report for the transmission project is expected to be lodged with the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure soon, providing a detailed overview of the project and potential impacts that will require further consideration through an Environmental Impact Statement.
Attributable to EnergyCo Chief Executive Officer James Hay: “The New England Renewable Energy Zone is a critical part of the implementation of the NSW Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap as we invest in the future of our state.
“The declaration means that the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces will need to approve the project following extensive public consultation before it can go ahead.
“Regional communities are central to the NSW Government’s plans to transform our energy system. At EnergyCo we’re strengthening local relationships and improving engagement to ensure more effective delivery of community benefits and local jobs.
“Everyone in NSW has a role to play in the energy transition, whether that be through home batteries or rooftop solar, hosting renewable generation projects or the critical transmission infrastructure that connects and powers our grid.
“Transmission is the critical enabling infrastructure to allow renewable energy to get into the grid and into homes and businesses across the state.”