The Smart Energy Council has strongly welcomed planning approval of the Hunter Transmission Project, hailing it as a vital milestone in securing New South Wales’ clean energy future, grid reliability, and economic prosperity.

Smart Energy Council Chief Executive David McElrea said connecting major Renewable Energy Zones in Central-West Orana and New England is critical to delivering affordable, reliable power across the state as older coal-fired power stations retire.

“Planning approval for the Hunter Transmission Project is a massive win for New South Wales households, businesses, and the broader energy transition,” he said.

“Transmission is the backbone of a modern, low-cost electricity grid. Without critical infrastructure like the Hunter Transmission Project, we simply cannot unlock the abundant, cheap solar and wind power generated in our Renewable Energy Zones and get it to the homes, schools, and businesses that need it most.”

The Hunter Transmission Project will serve as the missing link in the state’s evolving energy network, reinforcing energy security while unlocking economic benefits for regional communities and industry.

“The Hunter region has a proud history of powering NSW, and this approval ensures the Hunter remains right at the heart of Australia’s energy future,” Mr McElrea added.

“Projects like this create local jobs, attract billions in clean energy investment, and keep the lights on as ageing fossil fuel generators reach the end of their operational lives. We commend the NSW Government and Minister Penny Sharpe for ensuring the rollout of critical energy infrastructure is balanced by community feedback and environmental considerations.” 

-ENDS-

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About the Smart Energy Council

The Smart Energy Council is the peak independent membership body representing Australia’s renewable energy industry. We are a not-for-profit organisation and registered charity, advocating on behalf of our members and the wider industry for strong energy policy, increased investment, energy security and sustainable industry growth. Our work spans residential, commercial and industrial distributed energy resources (DER), including solar PV and battery storage, rooftop solar, electrification, electric vehicles and smart transport, renewable manufacturing, large-scale renewable energy, electricity grid development and emerging energy technologies. We represent our members’ interests nationally and internationally, including across the Asia-Pacific region.

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