The Australian and NSW Governments have announced $128.5 million in funding to upgrade 320 kilometres of roads connecting the Port of Newcastle to the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ).
The “Port to REZ” upgrades, a collaborative effort between the Energy Corporation of NSW (EnergyCo) and Transport for NSW, will ensure that the transportation of wind turbines and other crucial components needed for wind and solar farms, as well as the transmission network, can be facilitated safely and efficiently.
“Transport for NSW is supporting the eight councils along the route with resources and information to help guide them in the rollout of the REZ in preparation for new wind and solar power operations,” NSW Regional Transport and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison said.
“We are working closely with councils who are the local road authorities in their respective areas, responsible for the management of local road networks, including road safety, road funding, road maintenance and heavy vehicle access.
“Additionally, Transport for NSW and EnergyCo are currently carrying out a review of roads across the designated renewable energy corridors to determine if any roads should be reclassified as state roads.”
The 19 specific locations identified as pinch points, which include sections of the Golden Highway between the Port of Newcastle and Elong Elong, as well as a portion of the Castlereagh Highway, will undergo upgrades to accommodate the increased transportation demands.
Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe said as the Renewable Energy Zones progress, the NSW Government is working to ensure that local infrastructure such as roads, are in a good enough state to accommodate extra demands.
“This is part of our commitment to the long-term prosperity of communities hosting Renewable Energy Zones as we continue the transformation of our state’s energy system,” she said.
The detailed maps outlining the 19 highway upgrades are now available, and the project is set to play a vital role in supporting the growth of renewable energy in New South Wales.
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