DCCEEW / Mike Terry
Why we're changing
NSW is undergoing the biggest energy shift in a century. NSW's coal-fired power stations are reaching the end of their operational life. To keep the lights on, NSW is investing in renewable energy generation, storage and transmission infrastructure across the state.
Renewable energy, connected by transmission lines and supported by storage and gas, is the lowest cost way to replace the energy we get from coal-fired power stations.
What this means for local communities
As NSW's energy system changes, many communities are seeing new renewable energy, storage and transmission projects in their area.
These projects can create opportunities for local communities while also bringing changes.
Communities may see and experience:
- New renewable energy projects and the transmission infrastructure needed to move electricity, such as towers and power lines.
- Temporary impacts during planning and construction, such as traffic changes, road works, noise and changes in land access arrangements.
- Changes to the local landscape and impacts for people who have projects built on their property or live nearby.
- Opportunities to have a say on planning and delivery through community consultation.
- Many benefits including jobs and training opportunities, increased demand for local suppliers, grants and community investment, and opportunities for landholders and Aboriginal communities.
Communities can benefit from
Community and Employment Benefit Program
Supporting regional communities with funding, local jobs, training opportunities and investment that delivers long-term benefits.
Employment, training and local business opportunities
Find information about local jobs, skills development, training programs and opportunities for businesses to get involved.
Opportunities for Aboriginal communities
Explore information, resources and opportunities for Aboriginal communities to participate in and benefit from renewable energy and transmission projects across NSW.
Demand for local suppliers
Learn more about opportunities for local businesses in renewable energy zones and other electricity infrastructure projects.
Explore the stories behind NSW's energy transition
Power with a purpose
In Wellington in the state’s central west, a new kind of partnership is taking place between local Wiradjuri leaders and renewable energy company AMPYR Australia.
The future of farming is here
For fifth-generation farmer Cameron Wood, the future of farming doesn’t mean leaving tradition behind, it means evolving with it. Cameron’s property in the New England, New South Wales, has been in his family for more than 140 years.
All about renewable energy
Find out all about NSW's move to renewable energy with leading science communicator and author, Dr Karl Kruszelnicki, and wind turbine engineer and host of YouTube's 'Engineering with Rosie', Dr Rosemary Barnes.
DCCEEW / Jeremy Park
What we're building
Renewable energy zones (REZs) are areas where renewable energy projects, energy storage and transmission infrastructure are brought together. These are areas with strong renewable energy resources and suitable network connections.
The NSW Government has declared 5 renewable energy zones: Central-West Orana, New England, Hunter-Central Coast, Illawarra and South West.
Energy storage includes batteries and other technologies that store and release electricity when it's needed. These include the Waratah Super Battery and other storage projects in the REZ.
Transmission projects include new and upgraded power lines that connect electricity to homes and businesses.
Enabling projects are supporting works that help renewable energy projects be built across NSW.
Learn how major energy projects are assessed and how communities can provide feedback during planning and delivery.
We’re making it easier for households and businesses to understand their options with information, practical tools, incentives and support.
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Who plans and delivers energy projects?
Building NSW's future energy system is a shared effort. Government agencies, network operators and industry work together to plan, assess, build and manage new energy infrastructure. This includes renewable energy generation, storage and transmission projects that will help power homes, businesses and communities across NSW.
EnergyCo NSW
Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure
Assesses major projects and manages planning and environmental approval processes.
Department of Transport
Supports infrastructure delivery through road planning, upgrades and traffic management.
Environment agencies
The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) and the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) help protect the environment and manage biodiversity impacts.
Network operators and developers
Build, operate and maintain transmission, wind, solar and battery infrastructure.