The Hunter Power Project has received environmental approval to ensure that the people of New South Wales have ongoing access to reliable and inexpensive power in the future.
The ruling means that work on the 660 MW gas-fired power plant at Kurri Kurri may now commence, opening up new economic prospects and hundreds of jobs in the Hunter Valley.
Sussan Ley, the Minister for the Environment, said the project had been authorized following a thorough review, and on the condition that the project’s proponents, Snowy Hydro Limited, adhere to the conditions imposed by the NSW Government.
“This thorough bilateral assessment with NSW has paved the way for the development and operation of this new critical infrastructure in a way that sensitively manages, protects and rehabilitates the environment,” Minister Ley said.
Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction Angus Taylor said the Hunter Power Project was critical “to keep the lights on and power prices low” following the closure of the Liddell power station in 2023.
“The Morrison Government is committed to delivering the Hunter Power Project on time and on budget to ensure there is no risk to electricity consumers after Liddell closes,” Minister Taylor said.
“The project is good for jobs, it’s good for business and importantly it’s good for securing affordable, reliable power. It will support up to 600 direct jobs at peak construction and 1,200 indirect jobs across NSW.
“The Hunter Power Project is also vital to keep important businesses such as the Tomago Aluminium Smelter operating.
Following the closure of Liddell, the NSW government has committed up to $600 million in equity to support the gas-fired power station, with the goal of adding 1,000 MW of dispatchable electricity in the state.
