Australia's first urban Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) is progressing, with registrations now open for the Illawarra REZ Community Reference Group.
Through this REZ, the Minns Labor Government is leveraging the unique characteristics of the Illawarra region to deliver more affordable and reliable power to NSW homes and businesses, keeping the lights on and downward pressure on power bills.
The Community Reference Group will consist of around 10 member which represent communities in the REZ and help shape the region's energy future. It will inform how the REZ can support local households, industries and future energy needs and ensure community perspectives are reflected throughout planning.
EnergyCo is seeking a range of volunteers who live locally, including individuals or representatives with relevant experience and expertise from the following groups or backgrounds:
- First Nations
- Environment
- Community
- Local government
- Education and training
- Land use and strategic planning
- Social justice
- Business and industry
The Illawarra REZ is critical to the state's energy transition as it has local expertise gained over more than a century of powering Australia.
The Minns Labor Government is shaping this REZ to integrate consumer energy resources such as rooftop solar systems, home batteries and community-scale batteries. Spare government land and commercial roof space is being investigated to minimise impacts on surrounding communities and the environment.
The Community Reference Group builds on insights gained from industry roundtables where experts discussed the local context and the significant opportunities for new industries to develop. These include battery manufacturing, clean energy supply chains and advanced manufacturing, drawing on a workforce with generations of heavy-industry experience.
As work continues to shape Australia's first urban Renewable Energy Zone, Adam Zarth has been appointed Independent Chair of the Community Reference Group, and David Petrie has been appointed Deputy Independent Chair.
Expressions of Interest close at 5pm on 10 August.
For information, visit www.energyco.nsw.gov.au/our-projects/illawarra-rez.
Minister for the Illawarra and South Coast, Ryan Park said:
"The Illawarra is in a unique position to support the state's energy transformation and set us up for success as the region's energy needs grow. We also have the skills and community know-how.
"I encourage locals with experience across community, industry, environment, education, planning and First Nations perspectives to put their hand up and help shape this important work."
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully said:
"The Illawarra Urban Renewable Energy Zone is a unique opportunity for our region to help lead the next chapter in clean energy, industry and jobs.
"This Community Reference Group will give locals a direct say in how the Illawarra REZ proceeds, so it reflects the needs of households, workers, businesses and communities."
EnergyCo Chief Executive Officer, Hannah McCaughey said:
"Tapping local perspectives is essential during the planning stages. A space to discuss community priorities, ideas, and opportunities will inform our approach and ensure the Illawarra community benefits from the REZ.
"These contributions by the Community Reference Group will help us plan the REZ so it delivers for communities and secures our energy grid."
About the Illawarra Renewable Energy Zone:
EnergyCo is delivering Australia's first urban REZ in the Illawarra.
The intended network capacity for the Illawarra REZ is 1 gigawatt. This may increase over time with the growth of emerging industries.
The Illawarra REZ will underpin the growth of new low-carbon industries that could service both domestic and export markets as the world decarbonises and shifts towards green manufacturing.
