Multi-million dollar boost for councils to help deliver NSW renewable energy future
Councils within the New England Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) will receive a multimillion-dollar resource boost from the NSW Government.
Six councils involved with the delivery of the New England REZ will receive $250,000 each year, over the next three years to plan for their community’s future as part of the renewable energy transition.
The partnership will provide Tamworth, Armidale, Uralla, Walcha, Inverell and Glen Innes councils with additional resources to coordinate activities connected to the roll out of the New England REZ.
Muswellbrook Council – a key local government area which will support the delivery of both the Central-West Orana and New England REZs, will also receieve the same funding.
The $5.25 million of funding for councils involved in the delivery of the New England REZ is being delivered early by the NSW Government to provide councils with certainty, so they can effectively engage with the planning process and ultimately implement what is best for their communities, with the funding staged over subsequent years.
Some of the work covered by this funding may include; responding to consultation processes underway in the REZ, providing input to EnergyCo on the cumulative impacts of the energy transition in their council area, or securing services to support council and community planning arising from the roll out of the REZ.
This funding boost will be provided by the Energy Corporation of NSW (EnergyCo), and is separate, and in addition to, any agreements between councils and private generators. Together with the $2.25 million already committed in the Central-West Orana region, this brings funding to date for local councils to a total of $7.5 million.
This support is a small step in what will be a long-term partnership between local councils and EnergyCo regarding future benefits in their local government areas. The rollout of these benefits will include close consultation with the community and councils.
Quotes attributable to EnergyCo Chief Executive James Hay
“The NSW Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for regional communities. Councils are at the forefront of this change on the ground, and we are partnering with them to unlock the benefits of the energy transition.
Quotes attributable to EnergyCo Regional Director Alexandra Hall
“The NSW Government recognises local councils understand the needs of their communities and play an important role in planning the delivery of the critical electricity required to secure the long-term energy needs of everyone in this State.
“This funding is an initial step in what will be a long term, collaborative relationship between the NSW Government and local government.”