EnergyCo shifts Renewable Energy Zone conversations beyond transmission infrastructure
As NSW Renewable Energy Zones move from planning into delivery, EnergyCo is taking a broader conversation into regional communities, bringing together government agencies, infrastructure providers and industry to discuss employment, business opportunities and community investment alongside the infrastructure itself.
EnergyCo will take its Renewable Energy Zone engagement directly into regional communities next month, with a series of Community Roadshows designed to connect residents, businesses and local organisations with the agencies and organisations delivering NSW's energy transition.
The roadshows will be held across the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone from 11 to 15 August, with events in Coolah, Mudgee, Dubbo, Dunedoo and Wellington. Residents will be able to access the latest project information, discuss local jobs and business opportunities, learn about community benefit programs and speak directly with representatives from government agencies, infrastructure providers and industry.
Engagement expands beyond project planning
The roadshow reflects a broader shift in EnergyCo's community engagement as Renewable Energy Zones progress from planning into delivery.
Earlier consultation largely focused on transmission corridors, environmental assessment and project development. The latest events broaden that discussion to include employment pathways, local procurement opportunities, community funding and the long-term operation of Renewable Energy Zones.
Information at the roadshows will be organised around topics that communities have identified as priorities, including project updates, employment, local business participation and community benefits.
Community benefits become part of the conversation
The roadshow follows recent announcements relating to the Community and Employment Benefit Program, which has become an integral part of the NSW Government's Renewable Energy Zone model.
In June, the NSW Government announced an initial $60 million would be made available for communities hosting the South West Renewable Energy Zone through the program. The funding will support local infrastructure, services and employment initiatives, with EnergyCo consulting councils and communities before finalising how the program will operate.
The South West announcement builds on the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone, where the Community and Employment Benefit Program has already funded projects including key worker housing, water security initiatives and early childhood services.
Consultation continues in the New England REZ
Community engagement is also continuing in the New England Renewable Energy Zone, where EnergyCo has opened consultation on the design of its Community and Employment Benefit Program.
The process includes an online survey, webinars, mobile information offices and face-to-face sessions across Armidale, Uralla, Walcha, Tamworth, Scone and Muswellbrook.
The consultation follows the announcement of an initial $60 million investment for communities hosting renewable energy and transmission infrastructure within the New England REZ, with feedback intended to help shape how the program is delivered locally.
A broader conversation about regional development
The Community Roadshows indicate that Renewable Energy Zone engagement is extending beyond the delivery of electricity infrastructure.
As transmission projects move into construction and renewable generation projects progress through development, EnergyCo is placing greater emphasis on how regional businesses, community organisations, First Nations groups and local councils can participate in the economic and community programs that accompany Renewable Energy Zones.
The conversation is increasingly extending beyond energy infrastructure itself to include procurement, workforce development and the long-term investment associated with Renewable Energy Zone delivery, ensuring the prosperity that comes with improved infrastructure is shared across the community.
