The New South Wales Government is set to meet with industry, community and union leaders to discuss its plans to establish the state’s first urban renewable energy zone (REZ).
Planned for the Illawarra, the REZ will leverage the unique characteristics of the region to deliver more affordable and reliable power to NSW homes and businesses.
The Illawarra REZ Roundtable will be held on 23 May, and will see energy experts, business leaders and community representatives map out next steps for the REZ, including initial options which can be delivered by 2030.
The Roundtable coincides with the signing of a new memorandum of understanding between EnergyCo, which leads the delivery of REZs, and local electricity distribution system operator, Endeavour Energy, to jointly develop innovative network and battery solutions within the REZ.
Renewed attention is being given to the integration of consumer energy resources, such as rooftop solar systems and home batteries, as well as community-scale batteries and utilisation of spare government land and commercial roof space. This will minimise the impact on surrounding communities and the environment by repurposing existing infrastructure as much as possible.
The Illawarra region contains unique features that make it an ideal location for a REZ. The region already hosts major energy, port and transport infrastructure, has a skilled workforce and has strong demand for future renewable energy projects. The Illawarra REZ will help strengthen the region’s economy and support jobs for decades.
EnergyCo will engage closely with community, industry, local government and other stakeholders as the design and delivery of the REZ progresses.
New South Wales Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Penny Sharpe, said that the Illawarra has the potential to be NSW’s first urban renewable energy zone.
“This is a chance to leverage the community’s enthusiasm for solar, batteries and EVs to benefit the entire region, as well as pursue longer-term opportunities to support green manufacturing,” Sharpe said.
“The Roundtable is an opportunity for community, industry and energy leaders to map out the next steps for unlocking clean, reliable and affordable energy for the Illawarra Renewable Energy Zone.”
New South Wales Minister for Planning and Public Spaces and Member for Wollongong, Paul Scully, said that the Illawarra is uniquely positioned to show how renewable energy production and consumption can fit into an urban area.
“This Roundtable brings together industry pace setters and innovators in a crucial step towards delivering clean green energy that can meet the needs of both residents and local industry,” Scully said.
“Right across the Illawarra, businesses and the community are motivated to be a part of NSW’s energy future.”
New South Wales Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast, Ryan Park, said that the Illawarra is perfectly poised to host a REZ which will power homes and businesses here and across NSW.
“The Illawarra already hosts major energy, port and transport infrastructure, we have skilled workers ready to go, and strong demand for projects which capitalise on the region’s ability to innovate.”
