Construction underway on Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone

A significant milestone has been reached on the Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) project, with construction now officially underway.

This is a major step forward in the State’s renewable energy transition as the project is expected to generate enough energy to power more than all the homes in the Hunter.

The network infrastructure project will connect an additional 1.8GW of new renewable energy generation and storage projects.

The Hunter-Central Coast REZ will include:

• Upgrading approximately 85 kilometres of sub-transmission lines
• Installing 18 kilometres of new underground fibre optic communications cable
• Building two new energy hubs in Muswellbrook Local Government Area (Sandy Creek and Antiene)
• Upgrading existing substations, including the one at Kurri Kurri

Hunter-Central Coast Network Infrastructure Project is the first REZ to upgrade existing distribution poles and wires instead of building all new transmission lines.

“The start of construction is a major milestone for energy security in NSW and we are proud that 90 per cent 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,” EnergyCo Chief Executive Hannah McCaughey said.

“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.

“I’m incredibly proud of the work Ausgrid has done over the past 12 months to plan this project – and importantly to carry out extensive engagement with landowners, residents and local businesses.

“We look forward to our solution providing ongoing benefits for the Hunter Region, for generations to come,” Independent Chairman Ausgrid Board Dr Helen Nugent AC said.

Project map (source: EnergyCo)

This REZ covers nine local government areas including Muswellbrook Shire Council, Dungog Shire Council, Singleton Council, Cessnock City Council, Maitland City Council, Port Stephens Council, Newcastle City Council, Central Coast Council and Lake Macquarie City Council.

The project is going to be built on the lands of the Awabakal, Bahtabah, Bariban, Darkinjung, Mindaribba, Wanaruah and Worimi people.

Local businesses are targeted to get on board with contract opportunities via an online directory for the work available across all REZ regions, allowing local businesses to connect with upcoming opportunities.

EnergyCo and network operator Ausgrid will be working closely with the local community, industry and councils as the project progresses to unlock long-term benefits for the Hunter region.

The Hunter-Central Coast REZ is expected to generate 590 jobs during construction and a further 220 secure local jobs once operational.

“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 renewable energy sector directories open another door for local businesses to participate in the growing pipeline of energy projects across the state,” Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe said.

“It is a great day when you can announce hundreds of new jobs coming to our local area. I would strongly encourage locals to make every effort to be a part of this exciting time in upgrading our electricity system network.

“We are getting on with the job of bringing our future electricity supply to the homes and businesses that are our community,” Member for Cessnock Clayton Barr said.

Source: NSW Government – Media Releases; EnergyCo; PV Magazine Australia