Energy and Water Ombudsman now takes REZ complaints

The Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW (EWON) has expanded its jurisdiction to take complaints from landholders and community members impacted by renewable energy infrastructure.

The Energy Corporation of NSW (EnergyCo) and ACEREZ are now members of the Ombudsman scheme, meaning the ombudsman can now take complaints and help those aggrieved by REZ developments get a resolution.

EWON will provide a free, independent dispute resolution service for landholders and community members dissatisfied with how their complaints are handled by EnergyCo as well as Transgrid who is
already a member of EWON.

EnergyCo is leading the design, delivery and coordination of Renewable Energy Zones (REZs) as part of the NSW Government’s Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap, including new network infrastructure required to connect generation projects within each REZ with the electricity grid.

EWON will provide a ‘no wrong door’ referral service for residents, connecting them with the most appropriate channels to address their complaints if they fall outside EWON jurisdiction.

EnergyCo’s Executive Director, Planning and Communities, Ash Albury said landowners play a critical role in hosting electricity infrastructure projects that will deliver the energy transition.

“EnergyCo will always try to resolve any concerns through direct discussion, however offering an
independent dispute resolution service will enhance our commitment to landowners and community
members,” Mr Albury said.

ACEREZ, the preferred network operator to deliver the Central-West Orana REZ transmission network infrastructure, has also joined the ombudsman scheme. Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW, Janine Young visited the Central-West Orana REZ last month to better understand the issues key stakeholders and communities are experiencing.

“It’s critical for us to know what is happening on the ground so that we can work with residents and energy companies to reach an agreed complaints outcome,” she said.

“These projects will progress NSW Government Net Zero targets for 2030 and 2050.”

“We can’t stop or delay these projects, but we can help people navigate the maze of different organisations that are involved in getting the transmission and network infrastructure delivered.”