THE Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone project has received planning approval after a review of environmental impacts and consultation.
The project has an intended network capacity of one gigawatt (GW) and stretches from the Upper Hunter in the north to the Central Coast in the south.
It is set to be the first renewable energy zone (REZ) in Australia to upgrade existing grid infrastructure such as distribution poles and wires, in order to reduce the impact on communities and the environment.
Two new substations will also be constructed.
Full planning approval was achieved following the exhibition of the Review of Environmental Factors and a review of submissions by councils, state authorities, businesses and individuals.
According to the State Government, the Hunter-Central Coast REZ network infrastructure has been assessed as having a “relatively low environmental impact”, as most of the works are taking place on existing easements.
The project is now subject to final approvals from the Australian Energy Regulator.
Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe said, “Planning approval for the Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone project is further evidence of progress on a key upgrade that will help keep the lights on as coal-fired power plants retire.
“Upgrading existing distribution poles and wires allows us to minimise the impact on communities and the environment, and speeds up the delivery of this critical infrastructure.”
REZs aim to group new wind and solar power generation into locations where it can be “efficiently stored and transmitted across NSW”.
Five zones across the state have been identified.
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.
