Executive summary of update

This update amends the State Environmental Planning Policy (Planning Systems) 2021 by designating two new large-scale energy projects as Critical State Significant Infrastructure (CSSI). The amendment adds the Yarrabin (Phoenix) Pumped Hydro Project and the Western Sydney Pumped Hydro Project to Schedule 5. The primary intent is to streamline the planning and approval pathway for these projects, highlighting their strategic importance to the state's energy security and transition. The most significant practical consequence is that these projects will now be assessed by the Minister for Planning under a specific, accelerated framework, altering the standard environmental assessment, consultation, and approval processes for any involved parties.

Impacted parties

This update most significantly impacts energy infrastructure developers, construction contractors, environmental consultants, and the local government areas of Dubbo Regional, Mid-Western Regional, Camden, and Wollondilly.

Change Analysis

Designation of New Critical Energy Infrastructure Projects

The sole substantive change in this update is the addition of two new major energy projects to Schedule 5, which lists developments declared to be Critical State Significant Infrastructure (CSSI).

• Yarrabin (Phoenix) Pumped Hydro Project (Schedule 5, Section 43): This new section designates a pumped hydro project in the Dubbo Regional and Mid-Western Regional local government areas as CSSI. The declaration covers the construction and operation of dams, a powerhouse, transmission lines, and extensive ancillary infrastructure....