Construction is officially underway on the Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone (REZ), a project that will generate enough energy to power more than all the homes in New South Wales’ Hunter region.
NSW Energy Minister Penny Sharpe visited the site in Kurri Kurri to meet the workers and see the beginning of construction.
This project is a milestone in the state’s renewable energy transition, creating 590 jobs during construction, with a further 220 secure local jobs once operational.
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The network infrastructure project will connect an additional 1.8GW of new renewable generation and storage projects, and 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, including the one at Kurri Kurri.
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.
EnergyCo and network operator Ausgrid will work closely with the local community, industry and councils as the REZ unlocks long-term benefits for the Hunter region.
Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe said, “Upgrading this critical infrastructure is another step forward in securing clean, affordable and reliable energy for households and businesses as ageing coal-fired power stations retire.
Related article: Transgrid and Zinfra to upgrade network for NSW’s first REZ
“This project will unlock hundreds of local jobs and boost the economy in the Hunter region.”
EnergyCo CEO Hannah McCaughey said, “The start of construction is a major milestone for energy security in NSW and we are proud that 90% of the ongoing jobs are expected to be filled by locals.
“The Hunter region has a rich history when it comes to energy in NSW, and the REZ will ensure it remains a major player in future electricity generation.”
