EnergyCo seeks community input on New England REZ infrastructure
Registrations are open for EnergyCo’s community reference groups, giving locals the opportunity to shape the future of renewable energy infrastructure across the New England Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) and surrounding areas.
EnergyCo is inviting residents, community groups, First Nations representatives, and other interested parties to join one of two community reference groups for the New England REZ network infrastructure project. These groups will represent communities within the REZ, and those located along the transmission corridor between the REZ and Bayswater, near Muswellbrook.
The New England REZ, centred around Armidale on the lands of the Biripi, Dainggatti, Nganyaywana, Ngarabal, and Gumbainggir people, is set to have a network capacity of 8 gigawatts. It is anticipated that the REZ will attract up to $24 billion in private sector investment and provide about 2,000 operational jobs and 6,000 jobs during construction. New transmission lines and energy hubs are key to connecting renewable energy generation within the REZ to the broader electricity grid at Bayswater.
EnergyCo’s Chief Executive Officer, James Hay, highlighted the importance of local engagement, saying, "Local input during the planning and delivery stages for the New England REZ network infrastructure project is crucial." He stressed the need for close collaboration with the community to ensure their interests are taken into account, fostering trust and cooperation as the project progresses.
Since June 2023, EnergyCo has been working with landowners and stakeholders on the study corridor for the project. The establishment of the community reference groups will build on this engagement, bringing local voices directly into the planning process.
"The community reference groups will help us do that by bringing local knowledge and perspectives directly into our planning process,” Hay said. “They'll play a critical role to foster open and regular communication between the project and community, helping us to address challenges and maximise community benefits."
Local residents interested in joining one of the two reference groups have until 5pm on Wednesday, 23 October 2024 to apply. More information is available by contacting EnergyCo at nerez@energyco.nsw.gov.au or 1800 061 114.
