The first tender for the South West Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) Access Rights in New South Wales (NSW), Australia, has seen interest from projects amounting to around 15GW of solar PV, wind and energy storage.

Today, on September 12th, both the Australian Electricity Market Operator (AEMO) Services and the NSW government have confirmed that the registered interest in the fifth tender is approximately four times the indicative target, initially set at 3.98GW.

AEMO Services reported significant interest from hybrid projects that integrate conventional generation infrastructure, like wind and solar PV technology, with storage systems.

The tender has received bids for long-duration energy storage (LDES) infrastructure that exceed the target of 1GW by more than double. AEMO Services, acting as the independent Consumer Trustee for NSW, has the authority to recommend a greater or lesser volume of supported infrastructure than the indicated tender size.

According to the NSW government, the intense competition for access rights in the South West Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) will play a crucial role in identifying projects that can be swiftly operational and provide the greatest financial benefit to electricity consumers. Additionally, the successful implementation of these projects will prioritize the support and well-being of local communities.

Nevenka Codevelle, the executive general manager at AEMO Services, remarked that the response illustrated the strong value proposition for the South West Renewable Energy Zone (REZ).

Codevelle stated, “The high demand for access rights in the Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) reflects the ongoing industry confidence in our tender process and the appeal of the REZ proposition.”

“We have had discussions with investors and project proponents, and it was evident that the South West Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) would generate significant interest. It is encouraging to see this enthusiasm reflected in the number of proponents who have submitted bids,” commented Codevelle.

Penny Sharpe, the Minister for Climate Change and Energy in NSW, further remarked, “The considerable interest in this tender highlights NSW’s ongoing leadership in Australia’s energy transition and its appeal as a prime investment destination for renewable energy.”

“The level of interest allows for the selection of top-tier projects that will deliver affordable, clean, and dependable energy for NSW,” stated the source.