Network REZolution – a consortium comprising CIMIC Group companies Pacific Partnerships, CPB Contractors and UGL, and leading Australian energy infrastructure business APA Group – have today welcomed the NSW Government’s announcement that it has been shortlisted to progress to the request for proposal phase for the NSW Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone project.
The Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone will be NSW’s first renewable energy zone.
The announcement follows an Energy Corporation of NSW (EnergyCo) competitive expression of interest process to appoint a network operator to design, build, finance, operate and maintain the new transmission infrastructure. The project will be a long-term concession with EnergyCo, with construction commencement targeted in 2023.
As developers and operators of both regulated and contracted linear infrastructure, the Network REZolution consortium, supported by a highly experienced team of specialist advisors, has the extensive experience needed to deliver and operate the new transmission infrastructure in the Central-West Orana region.
As the Network Operator, Pacific Partnerships and APA will develop and invest equity into the project. Design and construction will be undertaken by CPB Contractors and UGL. The consortium will have an integrated solution with APA and UGL undertaking operations and maintenance for the transmission infrastructure.
CIMIC Group Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Juan Santamaria said: “The Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone is an important step in NSW’s transition to clean energy and an exciting prospect for CIMIC Group. The Network REZolution consortium has the capability to deliver the right project outcomes and better value to the State and to electricity consumers, providing low cost, reliable and clean electricity for homes and businesses in NSW.
“CIMIC’s construction and services companies, CPB Contractors and UGL, have unmatched experience in the delivery of critical transmission and renewable energy assets and optimising environmental and community benefits, including local skills, employment, and procurement opportunities. Our PPP business Pacific Partnerships has an active presence in Australia’s energy transition and is a long-term industrial sponsor and partner with major project experience.”
APA Group CEO and Managing Director Rob Wheals said: “Network REZolution has the strategic intent, skills and capabilities to deliver the electricity transmission infrastructure needed to champion and deliver NSW’s first renewable energy zone in Central-West Orana.
“Consistent with APA’s strategy and commitment to delivering world-class energy solutions for the Australian community, we see enormous opportunities in front of us to participate in the delivery of electricity transmission infrastructure in NSW’s renewable energy zones and we are determined to play our part.
“We’re pleased to see the NSW Government’s continued commitment to future industries and renewable energy, creating jobs and opportunities for regional communities.
“As a leading Australian owned and operated infrastructure business, we are determined to work closely with EnergyCo and the communities of the Central-West Orana region to deliver the critical infrastructure backbone that will support investment in renewables and firming generation as the energy transition gathers pace.”
Renewable energy zones combine renewable energy generation such as wind, solar, storage and high-voltage electricity transmission lines to deliver energy to the homes, businesses and industries that need it.
The Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone is key to the NSW Government's plan to make electricity cheaper, cleaner and more reliable, by connecting multiple generators and storage in the same location to capitalise on economies of scale.