Construction has begun on the Hunter–Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone, with the State Government marking the start of works at Kurri Kurri. The project is expected to generate enough power to supply more than all households in the Hunter.
Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe visited the site to meet workers and see the first stages of construction. The multi‑million‑dollar infrastructure build will support around 590 construction jobs and a further 220 ongoing roles once operational.
Works include upgrading about 85 kilometres of sub‑transmission lines, installing 18 kilometres of new underground fibre‑optic cable, building two new energy hubs at Sandy Creek and Antiene in the Muswellbrook LGA, and upgrading existing substations including at Kurri Kurri. The project will connect an additional 1.8 gigawatts of renewable generation and storage.
It is the first REZ project in NSW to upgrade existing distribution poles and wires rather than constructing entirely new transmission routes. Local businesses are being encouraged to register for work through a new statewide directory linking contractors with renewable energy projects.
“Upgrading this critical infrastructure is another step forward in securing clean, affordable and reliable energy for households and businesses as ageing coal‑fired power stations retire,” Minister Sharpe said.
“This project will unlock hundreds of local jobs and boost the economy in the Hunter region.”
