The New South Wales Government has announced it will conduct an independent, expert review into the state’s electricity planning arrangements, in a move to ensure the outcomes delivered are in the public’s best interest.
The review will recommend reforms to improve how electricity transmission is planned in New South Wales, and the State Government said this will ensure new transmission infrastructure is planned in a way that delivers outcomes in the public interest and supports New South Wales policies and legislated targets.
The New South Wales Government said that a well-coordinated transmission network is essential for a reliable and affordable energy system. Improving transmission planning arrangements is an opportunity to ensure that New South Wales maintains energy reliability, while putting downward pressure on energy prices for households and businesses.
Transmission planning involves identifying what infrastructure is needed to keep the lights on and deliver best outcomes for electricity customers. It is governed by both the National Electricity Rules and New South Wales legislation. At least four bodies have a role in planning transmission infrastructure in New South Wales, and only one of them is a state government agency.
The review will focus on streamlining processes and improving coordination between key parties responsible for planning transmission in New South Wales and delivering the State Government’s plan for a reliable energy system.
Transmission lines enable electricity to be transported around New South Wales, and between states. The delivery of new transmission infrastructure is critical to enable renewable energy zones to transmit renewable energy from solar and wind to where it is needed.
The independent panel of experts will be led by Richard Owens, a veteran in transmission and electricity regulation and reform. The panel will consult with key stakeholders across the sector, including industry, market bodies, government agencies and consumer advocates.
New South Wales Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Penny Sharpe, said that the state needs a transmission framework that ensures the public interest is prioritised in planning this critical new infrastructure.
“This review will reduce duplication and ensure coordination between relevant entities,” Ms Sharpe said.
“The State Government’s focus is on ensuring we accelerate the right projects to build a more reliable, affordable energy system for households and businesses in New South Wales.”
The New South Wales Government said this review is another milestone in its implementation of the recommendations from the Electricity Supply and Reliability Check-Up.
The review is expected to be completed with a final report to the Minister by September 2025. The State Government said it will consider the recommendations before responding.
