A major renewable energy project in New South Wales has secured planning approval. The Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone will upgrade existing power infrastructure to deliver more clean and reliable electricity to homes and businesses.
The project is the first in the state to focus on improving existing poles and wires. This method helps reduce environmental impact and limits disruption to local communities. The upgrades will create 1 gigawatt of network transfer capacity through improvements to distribution lines and the construction of two new substations.
The development will support about 590 direct jobs each year during construction. New roles will include engineers, electricians and labourers. Local businesses will also benefit through procurement opportunities and skills training programs.
The Hunter-Central Coast zone has been assessed as having low environmental impact since most work will take place along existing easements. Feedback from councils, businesses and residents helped shape the final design, with attention to environmental protection, visual impact, and community engagement.
Once complete, the project will strengthen the state’s energy network as coal-fired plants retire. It will also support the growth of renewable industries in the Hunter and Central Coast regions.
Final approval from the Australian Energy Regulator is still required before work begins.