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NSW sets bold plan for clean energy transition

The Clean Energy Council today welcomed the New South Wales Government's bold new plan to shepherd in 12 GW of new clean energy generation assets and 2 GW of energy storage by 2030, to take over from its fleet of ageing coal-fired power generation.

Clean Energy Council Chief Executive, Kane Thornton, said that the NSW Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap places three new renewable energy zones firmly at the centre of the state's transition, providing strong support to private investors to build new generation and storage assets in these locations.

"This ambitious new plan sets NSW up to be Australia's number one destination for renewable energy investment over the coming decade," said Thornton.

"It will provide tremendous confidence to private investors about when and where new generation is needed, while resolving a number of the key barriers to investment, such as access to the necessary transmission capacity, investment certainty through long-term energy services agreements and addressing slow and costly planning processes.

"In doing so, the Berejiklian Government will unlock $32 billion of new investment in regional NSW and support an estimated 6300 construction jobs and 2800 ongoing jobs.

"This will be transformative for the central west and New England communities, providing long-term employment pathways in the clean energy sector and creating greater resilience for regional and farming communities through landholder payments and community benefit schemes.

"Importantly, it also demonstrates that the clean energy transition will not cost consumers more, but rather save households $130 per year on their electricity bills.

"There will be much detail to be worked through over the coming months as the state looks to implement its vision, and the Clean Energy Council looks forward to working with the state government to support the smooth implementation of its plan.

"The implications for existing generators within renewable energy zones should be considered to ensure that their value is not jeopardised. Other advanced prospective projects across NSW should also continue to be assessed on their merits.

"This is a comprehensive framework for NSW to take control of its clean energy transition and maximise the benefits for electricity consumers and regional communities, and we applaud the state government's leadership," he said.

ENDS

For more information or to arrange an interview, contact:

Jane Aubrey
Clean Energy Council Media Manager
[email protected]
+61 409 470 683