Strong market interest as expressions of interest close for New England REZ network operator

The NSW Government’s plan to keep the lights on is one step closer as expressions of interest (EOIs) close for the New England Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) network operator. 

Six consortia have submitted EOIs, showcasing significant market interest in the project. 

The successful network operator will design, construct, finance, operate and maintain the new transmission lines and related infrastructure such as energy hubs, that will connect the REZ to NSW homes and businesses. 

EnergyCo received EOIs from Aura Networks, Future Energy Networks, NewLeaf Energy, Powergrid Corporation of India, Rezult Networks and Verta Energy. 

The EOI stage is one part of a highly interactive procurement process – one of the biggest of its kind in NSW – designed to foster collaboration between EnergyCo and industry to deliver greater certainty, improved productivity and overall value-for-money outcomes. 

With the EOI stage now complete, EnergyCo will evaluate all submissions and shortlist two to three applicants to progress to the request for proposal stage later this year.  

For more details on the network operator procurement process visit energyco.nsw.gov.au/ne/network-operator 

Quote attributable to EnergyCo CEO, Hannah McCaughey:

“It’s great to see such strong market interest in this project. It brings us one step closer to delivering a new, reliable energy system that will keep the lights on in NSW with lasting regional benefits.” 

Who did EnergyCo receive EOIs from? 

Below is a breakdown of each of the six consortia comprising energy, infrastructure, transmission and distribution organisations: 

• Aura Networks (comprising Plenary, Alupar, Webuild, FCC Construction)
• Future Energy Networks (comprising AusNet, Pacific Partnerships, GS, Hyundai, Ghella, CPB Contractors, UGL)
• NewLeaf Energy (comprising Iberdrola, Capella Capital, Gamuda, Samsung C&T, Ferrovial, Genus Infrastructure)
• Powergrid Corporation of India
• Rezult Networks (comprising ACCIONA and COBRA)
• Verta Energy (comprising EDF Australia)