The New South Wales government has revealed plans to invest AU$183.2 million to overhaul key sections of the regional road network, ensuring the state’s infrastructure can keep pace with the clean energy transition.
The funding is specifically targeted at upgrading routes to accommodate oversize and overmass vehicles.
These heavy haulers are essential for transporting massive wind turbine blades and solar farm components from ports to the state’s designated Renewable Energy Zones (REZs).
NSW Minister for Energy Penny Sharpe described the move as a once-in-a-generation upgrade of the state’s electricity and transport systems.
“NSW has the most advanced plan for the rollout of renewable energy in Australia – today’s investment in our road network is the next stage of that.”
The package will be shared across three of the five designated REZ:
- AU$68.2 million for the New England REZ for upgrades to Rix’s Creek Bridge and the Liddell Interchange, while planning for a bypass around Tamworth.
- AU$65 million for the South-West REZ to start work on six major intersection upgrades in the western Riverina to facilitate movement between the Dinawan and Buronga substations.
- AU$50 million for the Central-West Orana REZ focusing on safety and capacity improvements along the Golden Highway, as well as between the Port of Newcastle to the state’s interior.
Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison said that regional communities have borne the brunt of the transition for too long without adequate support.
“These upgrades will ensure it can safely and efficiently support the movement of energy infrastructure, while continuing to serve the people who rely on it every day.”
To minimise the headache for daily commuters, Transport for NSW has confirmed that most massive equipment loads will depart ports at night under police or pilot escort.
The previous green energy joint funding commitment of AU$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 road widening, relocating traffic signs, installing new turn lanes and extending drainage and culverts.