The New South Wales Government has announced that the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) transmission project has become the first of its kind in Australia to secure planning approval.
New South Wales planning approval for the project was previously granted in June 2024. With both State and Commonwealth approvals now secured, this crucial infrastructure is poised to transition into its delivery phase.
The Energy Corporation of NSW (EnergyCo) will now continue working towards awarding the final contract to the preferred network operator to design, build, operate, and maintain the transmission line network for the Central-West Orana REZ.
This is the first REZ to reach this critical step, paving the way for the construction of essential transmission infrastructure to connect large-scale solar, wind, and energy storage projects to the electricity grid.
The Central-West Orana REZ is a key initiative under the NSW Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap to deliver clean, affordable, and reliable energy to households and businesses across the state. The project is expected to deliver at least 4.5GW of transmitted electricity.
The Central-West Orana REZ is approximately 20,000km2 and takes in cities and towns including Dubbo, Dunedoo, and Mudgee. The project is expected to drive up to $20 billion in private investment in solar, wind, and energy storage projects, and support around 5,000 jobs during peak construction.
Construction works are expected to begin from late 2024, with initial operation anticipated in 2028.
EnergyCo CEO, James Hay, said, “Securing planning approval for the Central-West Orana REZ transmission project is a huge step forward in progressing 12GW of generation under the NSW Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap and moving towards NSW’s clean energy future.
“This is the first REZ in the country to obtain full planning approval, paving the way for a significant boost in renewable energy generation to replace aging coal-fired power stations.
“The Central-West Orana REZ isn’t just about clean energy. This project will bring long-term financial benefits to both New South Wales electricity consumers and the local communities where the REZ will be built.
“EnergyCo will continue to work closely with local communities, and the preferred network operator to finalise the project to financial close.”
Featured image: Dmitry Tkachenko Photo/shutterstock.com
