A Renewable Energy Zone transmission project in NSW’s Central West has been
declared Critical State Significant Infrastructure as a result of its importance to future
energy supply and security.
The Central West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) Transmission project will
develop high-voltage transmission lines, substations and other electricity
infrastructure.
Member for Dubbo Dugald Saunders said TransGrid will undertake detailed
community consultation on the transmission study corridor.
“We want to make sure this infrastructure is built where our local community wants
and welcomes it, and I encourage landowners and the Central West Orana community
to get involved in the consultation process for this major project that will unlock the
economic benefits of the REZ for generations to come,” Mr Saunders said.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the project could help to
bring a significant capacity of renewable energy online.
“If approved, this project will deliver 3,000 megawatts of new energy capacity which is
enough to power 1.4 million homes and pave the way for $5.2 billion in private
investment in renewable energy projects,” Mr Stokes said.
“This would increase the grid’s capacity and enable the development of Australia’s first
coordinated Renewable Energy Zone which will support the pipeline of wind, solar and
energy storage projects in the Central West Orana region.”
Minister for Energy and Environment Matt Kean said the declaration is an important
step in delivering the State’s first Renewable Energy Zone (REZ).
“Last month we got our landmark energy legislation through the Parliament, and now
we get on with the job of delivering the cheap, reliable grid that will power us into the
future,” Mr Kean said.
“Transmission is such a critical piece of the energy infrastructure puzzle. We have
seen huge investment interest in generation and storage projects for the Central-West
Orana REZ, and projects like this will ensure we can get that capacity into the grid and
into homes and business across the State.”
An Environmental Impact Statement will be prepared by TransGrid and be released
for community feedback and detailed assessment.