With NSW progressing towards its renewable energy targets, attention is turning to the infrastructure still to be delivered and the opportunities for businesses involved in the state’s changing energy system.
Business Hunter will host NSW Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe at its Energy and Resources Lunch on Thursday 5 November, bringing together regional industry representatives to discuss the progress of the NSW Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap and the decisions shaping its next phase.
The lunchtime event will examine how the state’s renewable energy program is moving from planning and policy development into the delivery of generation, transmission and storage infrastructure.
For Hunter businesses, the discussion will focus on where opportunities may emerge, what is still holding back investment and how the region’s industries and supply chains fit into the state’s energy transition.
NSW progresses towards renewable energy targets
Introduced in November 2020, the Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap is the NSW Government’s 20-year plan to coordinate investment in electricity generation, transmission, storage and firming infrastructure as the state’s coal-fired power stations age and retire.
The Roadmap is intended to support private investment in at least 12 gigawatts of new renewable electricity generation and 2 gigawatts of long-duration storage, including pumped hydro and batteries.
According to the NSW Government, enough renewable generation projects have now been contracted to account for more than 75 per cent of the minimum 12 gigawatts required by 2030.
The government also reports that contracted projects are sufficient to meet its minimum long-duration storage objectives for 2030 and 2034.
The Roadmap is expected to support more than $77 billion in private sector investment across NSW by 2035, although the figure represents projected investment rather than expenditure already delivered.
What comes next for Hunter industry?
While the Roadmap has established a pipeline of renewable energy projects, their delivery involves further investment in infrastructure, construction and supporting industries.
The Hunter is among the regions involved in this work, with renewable energy generation, storage and transmission developments forming part of the state’s changing electricity network.
At the Business Hunter lunch, Minister Sharpe will discuss the progress of major energy initiatives and policy commitments, alongside the decisions and infrastructure requirements that continue to influence investment and business confidence.
The discussion will also examine developments expected over the next 12 to 24 months, including the implications for energy users, investors and businesses seeking to participate in the infrastructure program.
Business Hunter has identified the region’s industries and supply chains as a central focus of the event, with particular attention to how local businesses can position themselves for opportunities arising from the next phase of delivery.
Minister to address Newcastle business community
The Energy and Resources Lunch will give Hunter businesses an opportunity to hear directly from the Minister responsible for overseeing the state’s energy transition and gain a clearer understanding of the work ahead.
Sponsored by Enel X, the event will take place at Noah’s on the Beach in Newcastle East on Thursday 5 November 2026, from 11.30am to 2pm, with formalities commencing at noon.
Tickets cost $165 for Business Hunter members, $176 for LCC members and $198 for non-members, plus booking fees.
