UPDATE: Construction has officially begun on the Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone (REZ), a groundbreaking project poised to generate enough energy to power all homes in the region. The announcement was made by Penny Sharpe, the Minister for Climate Change and Energy, during her visit to Kurri Kurri, NSW, earlier today.
This urgent development marks a significant milestone in New South Wales’ renewable energy transition. The project is set to create 590 jobs during construction and an additional 220 secure local jobs once operational, directly benefiting the Hunter community.
The Hunter-Central Coast REZ will connect an additional 1.8 GW of new renewable generation and storage projects through a robust network infrastructure upgrade. Key elements of the project include:
– Upgrading approximately 85 km of sub-transmission lines
– Installing 18 km of new underground fibre optic communications cable
– Building two new energy hubs in the Muswellbrook LGA (Sandy Creek and Antiene)
– Upgrading existing substations, including the one at Kurri Kurri
This initiative is particularly notable as it is the first REZ project to focus on upgrading existing distribution poles and wires rather than constructing entirely new transmission lines. This approach not only enhances efficiency but also minimizes disruption to local communities.
Local businesses are encouraged to seize contracting opportunities through an online directory, connecting them with available jobs across all REZ regions. This step is crucial for stimulating the local economy and ensuring that the benefits of the project are felt throughout the community.
EnergyCo and network operator Ausgrid will collaborate closely with local stakeholders, including councils and businesses, to maximize the long-term benefits for the Hunter region.
Quote from Minister Sharpe: “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. This project will unlock hundreds of local jobs and boost the economy in the Hunter region.”
The Member for Cessnock, Clayton Barr, expressed enthusiasm about the job creation potential, stating, “It is a great day when you can announce hundreds of new jobs coming to our local area.” He urged locals to engage with this exciting opportunity to upgrade the electricity system.
Chief Executive of EnergyCo, Hannah McCaughey, emphasized the importance of this project for energy security in New South Wales, with a strong focus on local employment: “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.”
Independent Chairman of the Ausgrid Board, Dr. Helen Nugent AC, highlighted the pioneering aspect of the REZ project, stating, “As Australia’s first Distribution REZ, Ausgrid is proud to lead the way in demonstrating how we can play a key role in the energy transition.”
The Hunter-Central Coast REZ is not just about energy production; it represents a commitment to sustainable development and economic revitalization for the region. As construction progresses, all eyes will be on how this project transforms the local landscape and paves the way for a greener future.
For more information about contract opportunities and to view the directory, visit: https://www.energyco.nsw.gov.au/community/careers-training-business-opportunities.
Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds, impacting the Hunter region and beyond.
