EnergyCo has launched consultation on a $60 million program designed to deliver long-term benefits to communities hosting renewable energy infrastructure in our region.
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The South West Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) Community and Employment Benefit Program will invest in projects and programs that deliver legacy outcomes for the region.
Throughout July and August, local communities, councils and First Nations groups are invited to provide feedback on how the program is designed and delivered, through an online survey, webinar and community drop-in sessions.
The initial $60 million will be funded through access fees paid by renewable energy developers connecting to the South West REZ transmission network.
Those projects are Bullawah Wind Farm (BayWa R.E.), Dinawan Energy Hub (Spark Renewables), Pottinger Energy Park (Someva and AGL) and Yanco Delta Wind Farm (Origin Energy).
Additional contributions from future access rights holders will grow the program over time.
A map of the South West REZ pinpointing the four projects granted right of access.
The funding area has been expanded to include towns and communities outside the REZ boundary that are supporting REZ development, ensuring a broader distribution of benefits.
EnergyCo CEO Hannah McCaughey said communities deserved to share in the benefits brought by the infrastructure they were hosting.
“This program is about creating lasting value for local communities by investing in projects that strengthen the region, support local employment and deliver benefits well beyond construction,” she said.
“We're looking forward to hearing from local communities, councils and First Nations groups to help deliver a meaningful legacy.”
The consultation period kicks off with an online webinar at noon on Monday, August 3, where you can learn more about the program and ask questions. Registrations are required.
A series of community drop-in sessions will then be hosted in the weeks that follow.
Local sessions are as follows:
Jerilderie Civic Hall - Wednesday, August 12, 9.30am-12.30pm with the presentation running at 10am and noon.
Coleambally Community Hall - Wednesday, August 12, 3pm-6pm with the presentation at 3.30pm and 5.30pm.
Darlington Point Grocer, Thursday, August 20, 10.30 am-1.30pm.
An online community survey is also open as a way to provide feedback.
To access the survey and register for the webinar, or for more details on the program, go to https://www.energyco.nsw.gov.au/sw-cebp.
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