The exhibition period for the Hunter Transmission Project Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) closed on 24 September 2025. Community members, landowners, stakeholders and agencies provided feedback that is now being reviewed by EnergyCo.
Community and stakeholder input has already played a central role in refining the project route. Around 89 per cent of the corridor now runs through mining, energy and government land to reduce impacts on homes and farms.
During the exhibition period, the project team hosted seven information sessions, four pop-ups and three webinars. Online briefings were also held with environmental groups and recreational users. Feedback was received through 173 submissions, including 12 in support, 111 objections and 50 comments.
What the community told EnergyCo
Key themes included:
• Property access: Landowners asked for clarity on protocols. EnergyCo will continue negotiating access directly with each landowner.
• Environment and biodiversity: Concerns remain about vegetation clearing and impacts on species such as the Swift Parrot and Little John Tree Frog. These matters will be addressed in the Submissions Report and Amendment Report.
• Community engagement: People requested continued updates and opportunities to speak with the project team. An ongoing engagement program is now planned.
• Property acquisition: Questions were raised about compulsory acquisition and future land use. Discussions with affected landowners will continue.
• Landscape and visual impact: Views from elevated areas and tourist routes were raised as a concern. Work to reduce these effects is ongoing.
• Traffic and transport: Residents sought assurances about emergency access, travel times and possible road upgrades. These issues will be addressed in planning documents.
• Bushfire: Community members queried the risk of fires. EnergyCo noted that transmission infrastructure can be safely de-energised during bushfire conditions.
What happens next
All submissions are now publicly available on the NSW Planning Portal. A detailed Submissions Report and an Amendment Report are being prepared to outline responses to issues raised and confirm any refinements resulting from technical work.
The NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure will assess the EIS and these reports. A decision from the NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces is expected in 2026, followed by a separate Commonwealth approval process. If both approvals are granted, construction is planned to begin in 2027, with operation expected by late 2029. All dates remain subject to change.
Fieldwork this November
Environmental and heritage surveys are now taking place across state forests, conservation areas, mining land and some private properties. Survey activities include ecology assessments for nocturnal species, heritage investigations and geotechnical work. All fieldwork will follow strict safety and environmental rules. These studies aim to strengthen project design and protection of wildlife, culture, and nearby communities.
Ongoing engagement
EnergyCo will continue to meet with councils, landowners and local groups. Additional drop-in sessions, webinars and attendance at community events will be promoted through the project website and newsletter.
Efforts are underway to expand the project contact database so more people receive project updates. Local groups can also request briefings or information for their members.
EnergyCo encourages residents to get in touch with questions or feedback. The community team is available Monday to Friday and can be contacted by phone on 1800 645 972 or by email at htp@energyco.nsw.gov.au.
