1. What is a renewable energy zone (REZ)?
The NSW Government is developing five Renewable Energy Zones (REZs) across the state to harness the best wind and solar resources and deliver reliable, affordable renewable energy to homes and businesses.
EnergyCo is upgrading the electricity grid to connect the REZs and keep the lights on, while the private sector is developing renewable energy projects such as wind, solar and battery storage.
The five REZs are:
- Central -West Orana
- New England
- Hunter -Central Coast
- Illawarra
- South West
Communities hosting Renewable Energy Zones will benefit from investment in local infrastructure, jobs and long -term community initiatives, including the Community and Employment Benefit Program, which is funded through access fees paid by renewable energy generation and storage projects connecting to the grid.
2. Why the South West region was chosen?
The NSW Government chose the South West region for a renewable energy zone because it:
- has an abundance of high -quality wind and solar resources
- is close to existing and planned high -voltage transmission lines including Project EnergyConnect
- has relatively good land -use compatibility
- has a strong pipeline of proposed wind and solar projects.
3. Why are we relying on renewables?
Many of NSW's coal -fired power stations are expected to retire over the coming years as they reach the end of their operational life.
Renewable energy, supported by storage and modern transmission infrastructure, will help maintain a reliable electricity supply while meeting the state's future energy needs.
4. What types of projects are being built, and where will they be located?
The South West REZ will initially include:
- Four renewable energy projects incorporating wind, solar and battery storage.
- Two new transmission projects — Project EnergyConnect and the Victoria to NSW Interconnector West (VNI West).
An interactive map of Renewable Energy Zones and associated projects is available on EnergyCo website.
What is the Community and Employment Benefit Program?
The Community and Employment Benefit Program has been established to invest in projects, services and opportunities that deliver lasting benefits for communities hosting renewable energy infrastructure within the South West Renewable Energy Zone.
The program is designed to ensure local communities share in the benefits of renewable energy development by supporting initiatives that strengthen communities, create opportunities and contribute to long-term prosperity.