EnergyCo has released a series of interactive maps showing 19 highway upgrades that will allow renewable energy infrastructure to be transported from the Port of Newcastle to the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ).
The upgrades will enable the transportation of wind turbines and other crucial components needed for wind and solar farms and the transmission network that connects them.
The 19 locations have been identified as pinch points on the Golden Highway between the port and Elong Elong as well as a section of the Castlereagh Highway.
"As the Renewable Energy Zones progress, we're working to ensure that local infrastructure such as roads, are in a good enough state to accommodate extra demands," Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe said.
"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."
The Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone is the first REZ planned for NSW.
In addition to powering 1.4 million homes, it is estimated the REZ will bring $5.2 billion of private investment into the region and create 3900 construction jobs at its peak.
The new interactive maps also highlight the locations of the state's other Renewable Energy Zones as well as the projects such as the Hunter Transmission Project.
EnergyCo and Transport for NSW are working to deliver the road improvements to ensure they can comfortably accommodate transportation of materials required, whilst also improving road safety for local communities.
The Port to REZ upgrades will be funded by the federal and state governments, with $128.5 million announced towards 320 kilometres of road upgrades and ancillary works.
"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," NSW Regional Transport and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison said.
"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."
