EnergyCo is calling for feedback on the New England Renewable Energy Zone.
Community members are invited to join reference groups and provide input on the development of the Renewable Energy Zone (REZ), which is one of New South Wales’ most critical energy infrastructure projects.
Aimed at facilitating the state’s transition to renewable energy sources, the New England REZ project will construct new transmission lines and energy hubs to connect renewable generation projects in the region to the existing electricity grid at Bayswater near Muswellbrook.
EnergyCo Chief Executive Officer James Hay said local input during the planning and delivery stages for the New England REZ network infrastructure project is crucial.
“It’s essential that we work closely with the community to understand their needs, protect local interests, and build trust as we move forward,” he said.
“The community reference groups will help us do that by bringing local knowledge and perspectives directly into our planning process.
“They’ll play a critical role to foster open and regular communication between the project and community, helping us to address challenges and maximise community benefits.
“We have been engaging with landowners and stakeholders on the study corridor since June 2023. The community reference groups will build on this and aim to gather local input to identify what’s important to communities on the ground and find the opportunities to provide lasting legacy benefits.”
The energy provider is seeking a diverse range of applicants who live locally, have stakes in the project, and are passionate about the development of renewables infrastructure.
Registrations are open until 5pm on October 23rd, 2024. Interested individuals can apply online at energyco.nsw.gov.au/ne or contact nerez@energyco.nsw.gov.au or 1800 061 114 for more information.
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