A new law has been proposed to speed up the delivery of important renewable energy projects across New South Wales.
The proposed changes would allow the state to identify high-priority renewable energy projects and provide a faster approval pathway for projects that are important for the future energy system.
The changes would support renewable energy generation, energy storage and electricity network projects. These projects will help supply power to homes, businesses and major industries as older coal-fired power stations close.
The new process will not remove environmental or community assessment requirements. Project developers will still need to meet all planning, environmental and consultation rules.
Priority projects will also need to show strong engagement with landholders and local communities, especially in regional areas.
New South Wales is undergoing a major change in its electricity system. Renewable energy currently provides about 36 per cent of the state’s annual electricity supply. During several periods in summer, renewable energy provided more than 80 per cent of the electricity supply mix.
The proposed legislation aims to support further development of the infrastructure needed to generate, store and transport clean energy across the state.
The reforms will also support a consistent approach to community benefits from renewable energy projects. Since the introduction of the benefit-sharing guideline in 2024, more than $180 million in benefits have been committed to communities hosting projects.
Further changes are also being developed to improve how major energy projects are assessed. The aim is to maintain community input while reducing unnecessary delays for projects that support the state’s energy future.
The proposed reforms are designed to help deliver reliable and affordable energy, support industries, create jobs and encourage economic growth.