The NSW Government has given its approval to the Hunter Transmission Project, which it says will close a critical gap in the state’s electricity network as ageing coal-fired power stations retire.
The approval enables construction of a new 110-kilometre, 500 kilovolt transmission line, with around 90% of the route to be located on mining, energy and government-owned land to avoid sensitive areas and reduce the number of directly affected private properties significantly from around 70 to fewer than 20 following community feedback.
The approved transmission pathway has avoided and minimised impacts on trees and vegetation wherever possible and now avoids nearly all of the breeding ponds of Littlejohn’s Tree Frog, said Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Penny Sharpe.
“The Hunter Transmission Project is one of the most important energy projects in NSW because it will help keep the lights on as ageing coal-fired power stations retire,” said Minister Sharpe.
“This project is the missing link between the renewable energy being built in Central-West Orana and New England and the millions of homes, businesses, schools and hospitals that rely on affordable and reliable electricity every day.
“Planning approval means we can get on with building the infrastructure needed to secure NSW’s energy future, create jobs, attract investment and deliver cleaner, more affordable power for households and businesses.”
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully said the approval is subject to strict conditions, including dedicated conditions around social impacts, biodiversity, Aboriginal Cultural Heritage, and local business participation.
“This approval strikes an important balance between progressing a secure energy future, responsible development and conditions that require the protection of sensitive areas,” he said.
“The final project design reflects community feedback, reducing impacts on private land while delivering a piece of infrastructure that will help to provide NSW with more affordable, reliable and secure energy system for generations to come.”
The Government said EnergyCo and the preferred network operator will continue to work with affected landowners, communities, and stakeholders as the project progresses to construction.
Subject to Commonwealth Government approval, construction is expected to commence in late 2026 and be completed in late 2029.
More information about the Hunter Transmission Project is available at https://energyco.nsw.gov.au/our-projects/hunter-transmission-project.
