Network operator

EnergyCo is progressing the competitive procurement process to appoint a network operator to design, build, finance, operate, and maintain new transmission infrastructure in the New England REZ. The network operator will work in partnership with EnergyCo to deliver the network infrastructure project. 

In March 2025 EnergyCo released a call for registrations of interest to invite interested parties to submit a registration to participate in the network operator procurement process.  

As part of this work, EnergyCo held an industry briefing for interested parties to find out more about the network operator package. The industry briefing presentation slides are available to view here.  

In May 2025, EnergyCo invited registrants to participate in the interactive expressions of interest (EOI) stage, which attracted strong market interest with six submissions.  

Network operator tender shortlist announced

Three parties have been shortlisted to build and operate the new transmission network for the New England REZ. 

Future Energy Networks, NewLeaf Energy and Verta Energy will now progress to the Request for Proposal (RFP) stage in the competitive process to engage the New England REZ network operator:

1. Future Energy Networks: comprising AusNet, Pacific Partnerships, GS, Hyundai, Ghella, CPB Contractors, UGL
2. NewLeaf Energy: comprising Iberdrola, Capella Capital, Gamuda, Samsung C&T, Ferrovial, Genus Infrastructure
3. Verta Energy: comprising EDF Australia 

During the RFP stage commencing in November, each party will prepare a comprehensive proposal detailing its approach to delivering the REZ. They will need to demonstrate how their approach will generate regional job opportunities, support local supply chains and work proactively and positively with communities, First Nations people and landowners. 

The preferred network operator is expected to enter into a commitment deed by late 2027, with contract execution and financial close anticipated in 2028.

The procurement process will be carried out in parallel with our ongoing work with landowners and the community, as well as our environmental investigations, as we continue to refine the REZ network infrastructure project. 

For any enquiries relating to the network operator package procurement process, please contact our team at [email protected] 

Ongoing collaboration with the market

Consistent with the NSW Government Principles for Partnership with the Construction Industry, EnergyCo is committed to collaborating with the market to achieve greater certainty, increased productivity, sustainable risk allocations and overall value-for-money outcomes.  

Throughout the network operator procurement process, EnergyCo will incorporate structured interactive processes during the EOI and RFP stages to ensure that:   

• EnergyCo can test and receive feedback from market participants to inform RFP development
• market participants can test ideas and receive feedback, to aid the development of high-quality and well-considered EOIs and proposals. 

EnergyCo welcomes market interest in the project. In the interim, keep up to date with the project via EnergyCo’s website at energyco.nsw.gov.au/ne.