What is a Renewable Energy Zone?

Imagine a power station, but instead of one big building, it's spread out across a region and uses the natural resources around it.  That's kind of what a Renewable Energy Zone, or REZ, is.  It's a designated area where multiple renewable energy projects, like wind farms and solar farms, are located together. Think of it as a hub for clean energy generation.  By grouping these projects together, it becomes easier and more efficient to connect them to the electricity grid and get the power to homes and businesses.

One of the big benefits of REZs is that they make it simpler to build new renewable energy projects.  Instead of each project having to figure out its own connection to the grid, the REZ provides the necessary infrastructure, like transmission lines, in advance.  This reduces costs and speeds up the process of getting clean energy online.  It also helps to coordinate the different types of renewable energy generation, like wind and solar, so that they can work together to provide a reliable supply of electricity, even when the wind isn't blowing or the sun isn't shining.

Essentially, REZs are a smart way to develop renewable energy and modernize our electricity system.  They bring together multiple renewable energy projects in a coordinated way, making clean energy more accessible and affordable.  This not only helps us reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and fight climate change, but it also creates new jobs and economic opportunities in the regions where these zones are located.

This is the summary provided by Govt: https://vimeo.com/675661377

Why do we need REZ?

The general idea is that Renewable Energy Zones (REZs) are needed to efficiently store and transmit renewable energy across NSW, ensuring reliable electricity supply as coal-fired power stations retire.

How can CoREM help?

CoREM can help the local Council who represent the communities who will host these large scale developments by providing expertise, lobbying and setting benchmarks so that each community can benefit from REZs equally. Think of it as a homeowners association, or industry group, but for local Councils who do not have the rights to approve or disapprove of the developments, but will be directly impacted by them both now and in the future.

Who decides where a REZ is located and what can be built?

The decision of where to build a Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) in NSW is a complex one, involving a number of factors and stakeholders. Here's a breakdown of who's involved and what they consider:

EnergyCo NSW: This is the key government agency responsible for planning and developing REZs. They conduct detailed studies to identify potential locations, considering things like:

• Renewable energy resources: Areas with strong wind and solar potential are crucial.

• Proximity to the electricity grid: REZs need to be relatively close to existing transmission lines to connect efficiently.

• Land use compatibility: They assess how the REZ might impact existing land uses like agriculture, mining, or residential areas.

• Environmental factors: Potential impacts on biodiversity and ecosystems are taken into account.

The NSW Government: Ultimately, the government approves the REZ locations, considering the broader energy strategy and policy objectives.

The Consumer Trustee: This independent body plays a role in ensuring that the REZs deliver value for consumers. They assess the costs and benefits of different REZ options.

Local Communities: EnergyCo engages with local communities, councils, and First Nations groups to understand their views and concerns about potential REZ locations. This feedback is important in shaping the final decisions.

Other Stakeholders: Input is also sought from industry, landowners, and other government agencies.

But ultimately, unlike other developments, say like a large office building in the centre of town, each Council does not have the right of refusal and will be left dealing with both the short and long term impacts of these developments.

Where can I get more information?

NSW Focus:

• EnergyCo NSW: This is the most important site.  They are responsible for planning and developing REZs in NSW.  You'll find detailed information about specific REZs, planning processes, and related documents.  Start here:  https://www.energyco.nsw.gov.au/renewable-energy-zones 

• NSW Government Department of Energy: This department sets the overall energy policy framework within which REZs operate.  You'll find policy documents, strategies, and announcements related to renewable energy and REZs.  https://www.energy.nsw.gov.au/

• NSW Government Planning: The Planning site lists all the projects currently working through the approvals process across all REZ. Search for Solar, Wind and Pumped Hydro on the planning portal for a complete list of projects: https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/about-us/our-work/nsw-planning-portal

General Renewable Energy Information (Including REZs):

• Clean Energy Council (CEC): The CEC is the peak body for the Australian clean energy industry.  They provide information on renewable energy technologies, policies, and industry developments, including REZs.  https://www.cleanenergycouncil.org.au/ 

• Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO): AEMO manages the National Electricity Market (NEM) and provides insights into the electricity system, including the integration of renewable energy and the role of REZs. https://aemo.com.au/ 

Research and News:

• CSIRO (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation): CSIRO conducts research on various aspects of renewable energy, including grid integration and REZs.  https://www.csiro.au/  (Search for "Renewable Energy Zones" or related terms).

• Renew Economy: This online publication covers news and analysis related to renewable energy and climate change, often featuring articles on REZs. https://reneweconomy.com.au/