$115.5m invested to deliver the Newcastle Logistics Precinct
A new critical hub that will support the delivery of more reliable and affordable renewable energy to businesses and homes across New South Wales will soon be built as the State Government invests $115.5 million towards the project in the 2025-26 NSW Budget.
The Newcastle Logistics Precinct is going to be constructed next to the Port of Newcastle, at the former BHP Steelwork’s Intertrade site. This development will provide portside storage for equipment such as wind turbines and transformers needed to build renewable energy projects across the State.
“The Newcastle Logistics Precinct will enable the investment underpinning our once-in-a-generation upgrade of the energy system.
“With solar and wind projects being developed across the state, there’ll be many large components arriving at the Port of Newcastle – and they need to be safely stored before they can be moved to renewable energy zones.
“The Newcastle Logistics Precinct will significantly improve our capacity to store and efficiently transport the equipment required to build the critical renewable energy projects we need to replace ageing coal-fired power stations,” Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe said.
A newly paved laydown area will store equipment before it is loaded onto heavy vehicles. It will then be transported to project sites via the state road network, sections of which are already being upgraded to cater for heavy vehicle movements as well as build better roads for communities.
This investment delivers on the New South Wales Government’s commitment to ensure the build-out of the renewable energy zones has the infrastructure it needs.
EnergyCo is working closely with the Port of Newcastle to streamline the delivery of this project, which will ultimately strengthen the supply chain between the Port and the renewable energy zones.
“Delivering the Newcastle Logistics Precinct will ensure the Hunter remains at the heart of NSW’s energy future, opening the door to clean technology investment and new opportunities for local communities and businesses.
“We are building better communities for NSW by ensuring we have the infrastructure and reliable energy needed to improve the lives of people here in the Hunter and across the State,” Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said.
Project site (source: EnergyCo)
The Newcastle Logistics Precinct is one of several projects being delivered in the Hunter region as part of the transformation of the State’s electricity system. Other developments include the Port to REZ road upgrades, Hunter Transmission Project and the Hunter Central Coast REZ, which will deliver clean, reliable and affordable energy while creating jobs and driving long-term economic growth.
The project recognises the heritage features of the development site and will protect the Newcastle Steelwork Memorial adjoining it. Some buildings onsite are being nominated for heritage recognition.
The Newcastle Logistics Precinct is subject to planning and environmental approvals and will include an Environmental Impact Statement as well as a public exhibition period.
“Newcastle has a long history in the energy and manufacturing sector, and we are proud to continue that legacy as we transition to renewables.
“The Newcastle Logistics Precinct will build on the strengths of our region, which include excellent renewable energy resources, electricity network infrastructure, port and transport infrastructure and a skilled workforce.
“The BHP Intertrade site is the ideal location for this development and every effort will be made to uphold its heritage value and preservation,” Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp said.
Source: NSW Government – Media Releases; Infrastructure Magazine; EnergyCo
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