A major step toward creating New South Wales’ first urban Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) is underway, with industry experts, community leaders, and energy stakeholders gathering in Wollongong to shape the future of the Illawarra REZ.
At the Illawarra REZ Roundtable, participants discussed next steps for the REZ, with a focus on projects that can be delivered by 2030. The zone aims to provide affordable, reliable, and clean energy to homes and businesses, while supporting long-term economic and job growth in the region.
The event also marked the signing of a memorandum of understanding between EnergyCo, the state’s REZ delivery agency, and Endeavour Energy, the region’s electricity distributor. The partnership will explore network and battery innovations, such as community batteries, rooftop solar systems, and repurposing government land for renewable infrastructure.
The Illawarra region is seen as an ideal location for an urban REZ due to its existing port, transport and energy infrastructure, its skilled workforce, and its growing demand for clean energy. The project will help advance green manufacturing and energy transition efforts in urban settings.
Community consultation will play a central role in the planning and implementation of the Illawarra REZ, ensuring that the project is inclusive, beneficial, and environmentally responsible.