8 August 2025

People living in the Hunter region will benefit from an expanded forum designed to help them shape five renewable energy-related projects in their area.

EnergyCo is expanding the Hunter Transmission Project’s Regional Reference Group (RRG) into a broader Hunter-Central Coast RRG. This change reflects the portfolio of EnergyCo projects in the Hunter and will ensure the region’s voice will continue to inform future energy infrastructure.

Formed in early 2024, the regional reference group (RRG) plays an important role in connecting EnergyCo with environment and community groups, industry, training organisations, local government and other stakeholders as part of the Hunter Transmission Project (HTP). 

EnergyCo is now working across five major projects in the Hunter and Central Coast and an expanded RRG will help guide their planning and delivery.

The new Hunter-Central Coast RRG brings together stakeholders from across the region and creates a space for shared engagement on key projects, including:

• the Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone (REZ)
• the Hunter Transmission Project (HTP)
• the Newcastle Logistics Precinct
• the Waratah Super Battery Project
• the Port to REZ road network upgrades.

The region includes the local government areas of Upper Hunter, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Newcastle, Port Stephens, Cessnock, Mid-Coast, Singleton, Dungog, Muswellbrook and Central Coast.

Quote attributed to EnergyCo Chief Executive Hannah McCaughey:

“The Hunter region is at the heart of the energy transition in NSW. The Hunter-Central Coast Regional Reference Group provides a platform for collaborative and meaningful engagement across all our projects.” 

Quote attributed to Bob Pynsent, RRG Independent Chair:

“This group helps ensure local voices continue to be heard and have a say in shaping these important projects.

“The Hunter-Central Coast RRG will continue to work with EnergyCo to provide advice, share local knowledge and help identify opportunities that could benefit the community. This group plays a vital role in supporting the state’s renewable energy transition while also providing a regional connection to ensure the delivery of real outcomes for the Hunter.”

Learn more about the regional reference group