NSW’s 70m Central‑West Orana REZ set to power 2 million homes by 2028

It used 2,862 steel components and 6,252 bolts.

The first transmission tower has been installed in New South Wales’ first Renewable Energy Zone (REZ).

The 70-metre, 500-kilovolt tower was pre-assembled in 19 sections by ACEREZ and lifted into place by crane. It used 2,862 steel components and 6,252 bolts.

The Central-West Orana REZ will generate enough electricity to power more than 2 million homes starting in 2028, helping maintain supply and lower prices as coal-fired power stations retire.

The project is expected to attract $25 billion in private investment and create 1,850 construction jobs and 930 ongoing operational jobs.

Over 110 local businesses are already involved, with more than a third of the workforce from the region.

The REZ is also delivering $128m in community grants, with $72m already awarded to 75 local projects, including housing, water infrastructure, skills training centres, and sporting facilities.

An additional $4m will be distributed this year through the ACEREZ Community Grants Program.