The Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) transmission project has officially secured planning approval, marking a significant milestone for NSW’s renewable energy rollout.
The Central-West Orana REZ is an initiative under the NSW Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap to deliver clean, affordable and reliable energy across the state.
The project will deliver at least 4.5GW of transmitted electricity, which is equivalent to powering 1.8 million homes.
Planning approval of transmission lines will mean work can begin on the construction and operation of around 240km of lines and supporting infrastructure within the Central West Orana REZ.
This transmission infrastructure is critical to NSW’s renewable energy future. It will connect multiple major renewable energy projects to the grid, to pump cleaner, affordable power to homes and businesses across the state.
The Central-West Orana REZ is approximately 20,000 km2, and takes in cities and towns including Dubbo, Dunedoo and Mudgee.
Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe said this is the first REZ transmission project to obtain planning approval.
“It’s not just about clean energy,” Sharpe said.
“This project will bring long-term financial benefits to both NSW electricity consumers and the local communities which will host the Central-West Orana REZ.”
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