Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone

The NSW Government has completed a series of Regional Major Infrastructure Studies to help plan for the future needs of communities in and around the State’s first two renewable energy zones (REZs).  

These studies give a clearer picture of how proposed major projects from a range of sectors, including energy, mining, manufacturing and national infrastructure such as Inland Rail may interact over time in the areas hosting the Central-West Orana and New England Renewable Energy Zones.  

The government is already acting on the findings. Work is underway on road upgrades, additional housing supply, wastewater improvements and other infrastructure projects to support steady regional growth.  

Major projects are individually assessed through established planning processes. These studies provide a cumulative, long-range view of what could occur if a number of proposed projects proceed, as well as the opportunities that come from better sequencing, shared resources, and increased investment in regional NSW.  

The Regional Major Infrastructure Studies are the result of consultation with councils, government agencies and industry to assess existing and potential impacts.  

They cover issues including skills and training, workforce accommodation, water, waste, and local supply chains.  

EnergyCo will use the information contained in the studies to develop the renewable energy zones in a way that considers the broader regional context and encourages growth and sustainable demand for skills, services and infrastructure across the region in the years to come.

The Regional Major Infrastructure Studies for the Central West Orana are available on the Department of Climate Change, Energy the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) website, and Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) website.