About the project
EnergyCo is responsible for leading the delivery of Renewable Energy Zones (REZ) and enabling infrastructure.
Delivery of projects in REZs will require the transportation of large and heavy renewable energy components from ports such as the Port of Newcastle. These can include wind turbine components and transformers for generation and transmission infrastructure.
EnergyCo and Transport for NSW are working to upgrade road intersections and pinch-points along the state-road network to enable the movement of oversized and over-mass (OSOM) loads for renewable energy equipment. Initial upgrades will take place on-road sections between the Port of Newcastle and the Central-West Orana and New England REZs.
EnergyCo is the proponent leading the Port to REZ road upgrades, while Transport for NSW is the road authority and lead agency for the operation of the road network.
The upgrades will be funded by the NSW and Australian Governments with $128.5 million announced towards road upgrades and ancillary works.
Road upgrades to enable the passage of OSOM loads are expected to start in 2025.
Learn more and subscribe for project updates below
Road upgrade benefits
The road improvements needed to cater for OSOM vehicles are part of the evolution of the state road network as Transport for NSW responds to changing needs of industry, businesses, the community and travelling public.
The Port to REZ road upgrades will:
- enable delivery of large components essential to construct and operate major critical REZ transmission and generation projects
- minimise disruption and improve safety for other road users during the movement of OSOM loads
- include improvements to intersections and pinch-points and new passing bays
- be designed to enable safe passage of OSOM components and reduce impact on road users.
Working with Transport for NSW
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is in place between EnergyCo and Transport for NSW to manage transport related projects and impacts for REZ development.
Read more about the 'Port to REZ' MOU between EnergyCo and Transport for NSW.
Latest news
Detailed maps have been released showcasing the 19 highway upgrades that will pave the way from the Port of Newcastle to the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ).
View the maps below or explore via the Port to REZ interactive map.
The upgrades will enable the transportation of wind turbines and other crucial components needed for wind and solar farms and the transmission network that connects them.
EnergyCo and Transport for NSW are working together to scope and deliver the improved roads, ensuring they can comfortably and safely accommodate the construction of critical renewable energy projects while supporting the needs of the local communities.
The specific locations were identified as pinch points on the Golden Highway between the Port of Newcastle and Elong Elong, as well as a section of the Castlereagh Highway.
The work will vary from road widening to relocating infrastructure such as road signs and utility poles and construction of new turn lanes to accommodate oversize over-mass (OSOM) loads efficiently.
Port to REZ route
Locations for 19 highway upgrades from the Port of Newcastle to the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) which make up the Port to REZ upgrade.
Engaging with community and stakeholders
EnergyCo has been actively consulting with stakeholders including local Councils in the Hunter, Central-West Orana, and New England regions.
Councils within the Hunter region have been directly briefed on the proposed intersection designs and interactions.
EnergyCo and Transport for NSW have engaged community and road users regarding impacts during design investigations – this has included traffic alerts and notifications to residents and stakeholders near areas of work.
More information about upcoming consultations will be provided in the coming months. EnergyCo will provide communities with sufficient notice ahead of any upcoming engagement activities.
Delivering the road upgrade
EnergyCo has been working closely with Transport for NSW to determine the design, construction methods, planning approval pathway, and timing for the planned road upgrades.
In early 2024, site investigations for the Port to REZ route were completed, providing essential insights to inform detailed design and planning requirements.
EnergyCo is currently finalising the design and planning approvals for the works together with Transport for NSW, the relevant roads authority, for the road upgrades.
EnergyCo has shortlisted four companies to participate in the Request for Tender (RFT) phase for construction work between the Port of Newcastle and Central West Orana REZ.
The shortlisted companies are:
- BMD Group
- Fulton Hogan Pty Ltd
- Georgiou Group Pty Ltd
- Seymour Whyte Constructions Pty Ltd.
To ensure the state road network can accommodate OSOM vehicle movements for renewable energy and transmission projects in the REZs, minor road work and corridor modifications are required along the Port to Central-West Orana REZ route. We are confident that these companies possess the expertise to deliver on this critical infrastructure project.
The contract for construction is expected to be awarded in Q4 2024, with construction scheduled to start in 2025.
EnergyCo remains committed to engaging with the community as the project advances.
Travelling through the REZs
The initial Port to REZ routes involve three REZs – the Central-West Orana REZ, New England REZ and the Hunter Central Coast REZ. It also crosses the area identified for the Hunter Transmission Project. You can learn more about these by clicking the cards below.
Contact us
EnergyCo is the proponent of the Port to REZ project. Stay informed about the project and receive construction updates by joining the EnergyCo mailing list. If you have any questions or would like to provide feedback, contact us:
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 1800 849 794 (9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday)