I speak on the Opposition's motion concerning the New England Renewable Energy Zone [REZ]. It is a motion that purports to stand up for regional communities but is, in reality, political opportunism to drive a wedge between projects, which those opposite started, and the bipartisanship that we have on climate and energy transition. I flag that later in the debate the Government will move an amendment to remove all words after ''House" and to insert instead:
(1)notes that the previous New South Wales Liberal‑Nationals Government created the New England Renewable Energy Zone;
(2)supports the continued rollout of the New England Renewable Energy Zone, which is crucial to meeting the bipartisan net zero targets, putting downward pressure on energy bills and creating secure local jobs;
(3)notes net zero and the NSW Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap remain Labor and Liberal‑Nationals policy; and
(4)condemns efforts to undermine this bipartisan position.
Let's begin with the facts. The New England REZ was declared in December 2021 under the NSW Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap. That plan was developed, legislated and proudly promoted by the previous Coalition Government. It was a plan built on bipartisan consensus, designed to ensure New South Wales could transition to clean energy and replace ageing coal-fired power plants. The plan was designed to keep the lights on, prices down and investment flowing into regional communities. The renewable energy road map was not just a policy document; it was a promise that New South Wales would lead the way in delivering reliable and affordable renewable energy, and it is working. It is attracting investment, creating jobs and giving regional New South Wales a central role in the State's energy future.
But today the Opposition, particularly The Nationals, is turning its back on that legacy. The very party that helped design the renewable energy zones [REZs] now condemns the infrastructure needed to deliver them. We are waiting to see whether members on the opposite side of the Chamber still believe climate science and whether they support net zero or not. The silence is deafening, and the division is growing. The Minns Labor Government remains committed to the road map. We understand that delivering major infrastructure in regional New South Wales is complex. It requires consultation, adaptation and, sometimes, route changes. That is what happens when we consult and listen.
That is exactly what has happened with the New England REZ. EnergyCo has revised the transmission corridor based on community feedback and technical assessments. The new route is 45 kilometres shorter, crosses flatter terrain and avoids critical aerial firefighting zones. It is safer, more efficient and better for the environment. It reduces the need for earthworks, improves access for emergency services and lowers construction costs, all while maintaining the same number of impacted landowners overall. Let me be clear: This is a responsible adjustment, made early in the planning process to ensure better outcomes for communities, the environment and the energy system. Yes, consultation must be ongoing, and it is. This is important.
This is a three-kilometre-wide study area that will be refined to 140 metres based on consultation and further technical work. That means that EnergyCo will reduce the width of the corridor by over 95 per cent, based on feedback. That is a lot of room to work with. This is not a government ignoring the regions; it is a government listening and adapting. What is most concerning is the Opposition's attempt to politicise this process for its own politics. If we abandon the road map and walk away from the infrastructure that underpins it, we risk blackouts and price hikes. We risk losing billions in private investment in regional New South Wales.
Let me be clear: The road map is our path to energy security. It is our plan to replace ageing coal-fired power stations with clean, reliable alternatives. Without it, we face a future of uncertainty, not just for our energy system but for the communities who depend on it. Let us not forget that this is not just about transmission lines; it is about the future of energy in New South Wales. The New England REZ alone will enable up to 12 gigawatts of new renewable generation That is enough to power millions of homes and businesses.
