$128.5m funding commitment towards Golden Highway Port to REZ upgrades
The New South Wales Government has released a detailed map of 19 highway upgrades that will pave the way for improved travel between the Port of Newcastle and the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ).
The ‘Port to REZ’ program of works is jointly funded by the Australian and New South Wales Governments, with a $128.5 million investment towards 320 kilometres of road upgrades and ancillary works.
These road upgrades will enable the safe and efficient transportation of wind turbines as well as other crucial components needed for wind and solar farms and the transmission network that connects them.
“As the Renewable Energy Zonez progress, we’re working to ensure that local infrastructure such as roads, are in good enough state to accommodate extra demand.
“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,” Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe said.
The Energy Corporation of NSW (EnergyCo) and Transport for NSW are working together to deliver the upgrades to ensure they can comfortably accommodate transportation of materials required while also improving road safety for local communities.
The 19 specific locations identified as pinch points are on the Golden Highway between the Port of Newcastle and Elong Elong. A section of the Castlereagh Highway has also been identified for an upgrade.
“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.
“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,” NSW Regional Transport and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison said.
A detailed map of the Golden Highway and Castlereagh Highway upgrades can be found here.
Source: NSW Government – Media Releases; Transport for NSW; Daily Cargo News; Big Rigs
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