Wedoany.com Report-Feb 9, Ausgrid has started its consultation with communities of the Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone (REZ), the first in the country to upgrade existing distribution poles and wires.

According to authorities, the upgrades will facilitate more than 1 gigawatt of energy into the grid. These will also minimise the impact on surrounding communities and the environment.

The New South Wales Government appointed Ausgrid as the preferred network operator for the Hunter-Central Coast REZ, to design, build, finance, operate, and maintain the network infrastructure.

Ausgrid is currently conducting drop-in sessions in Singleton, Muswellbrook and online to discuss the project and hear feedback from community members. It has also begun early works for the project in the Upper Hunter to finalise its design for regulatory and environmental planning approvals.

“The Hunter-Central Coast REZ will play a critical role in ensuring a reliable supply of power to homes and businesses and putting downward pressure on bills. It will also help NSW meet its 2030 renewable energy and Net Zero targets,” the government said.