A further $183.2 million is set to be invested into key parts of the state’s road network, including the Hunter, to help drive the renewable energy transition.

The latest NSW Government funding will deliver critical upgrades to support the safer movement of Over-Size Over-Mass (OSOM) vehicles transporting components for wind and solar projects.

And, it’s being shared across three of the five designated Renewable Energy Zones (REZ):  

• $68.2 million for the New England REZ to begin upgrades at Rix’s Creek Bridge and Liddell Interchange, plan for safety and capacity upgrades between Muswellbrook and Armidale and develop an OSOM route around Tamworth on the northern end
• $65 million for South – West REZ to start work on six intersection upgrades to allow components to be moved through the western Riverina region between the Dinawan and the Buronga substations
• $50 million for Central – West Orana REZ for safety and capacity upgrades primarily along the Golden Highway, as well as between the Port of Newcastle (PoN) and the Central West  

Design work is already underway for critical upgrades on the Sturt and New England highways while delivery has started on town entry safety treatments on the Golden Highway at Dubbo, Dunedoo, Jerrys Plains, Denman and Sandy Hollow.  

“Our regional communities are at the heart of our renewable energy future,” Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said.

“But, for too long, they’ve had to bear the brunt of the transition without the infrastructure to support it.

“These upgrades acknowledge a simple reality.

“This investment is about recognising the role regional NSW plays in powering the state – and making sure communities see lasting benefits through stronger, safer and more resilient roads.”  

In coming months, Transport for NSW (TfNSW) will complete community consultation and provide more information and expected timelines as the program develops, while fast-tracking project concept design so the vital road work can move ahead quickly.    

Port of Newcastle CEO Craig Carmody admitted the Minns government’s renewable energy rollout was a generational, nation-building, freight and logistics task. 

“We’re the only port on the East Coast of Australia capable of handling such a massive and complex operation,” he said.

“So, as the entry point for these components, we recognise and welcome the unprecedented scale of works and investment the government is making to ensure the road network is equally ready.”

Extensive planning is already underway to minimise impacts on local communities and road-users, with OSOM movements carefully coordinated – typically departing ports at night and travelling along designated Renewable Energy Zone routes under pilot or escort where required. 

Muswellbrook Shire mayor Jeff Drayton welcomed the announcement, with the Upper Hunter a vital locale for the venture.

“Muswellbrook has long been at the centre of NSW’s energy story and, as that tale evolves, it is essential our community is supported,” he said.

“As a key hub, we’re seeing first-hand the increased demand on our local roads as large renewable energy components move through the region.

“For our community, that means balancing this important work with keeping our community connected and safe. 

“This investment will strengthen our road network, reduce pressure on key routes and ensure Muswellbrook continues to play a leading role in powering the state.”  

The previous green energy joint-funding commitment of $128.5 million has crews already working to upgrade 19 areas along the Central-West Orana REZ route. 

These upgrades and road treatments are at identified pinch points and vary from widening, relocating traffic signs, installing new turn lanes and extending drainage and culverts.   

With this new $183.2 million in funding, there is a total of $216.9 million available ($211.9 million NSW Government funding, $5 million Australian Government funding) for REZ road upgrades across regional NSW. 

It includes $10 million for the development of infrastructure upgrades associated with the Central- West Orana REZ project, which is funded 50/50 with the state and Commonwealth, and $23.7 million to deliver an overtaking lane west of Merriwa.

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