Capital City RDAs play a central role in connecting their statewide network with key decision makers – elevating regional priorities and showcasing insight and local expertise embedded across the RDA network. Each region faces its own set of opportunities and challenges and is progressing at different stages in realising benefits and responding to local needs.

NSW’s ambitious energy transition is anchored by a target to reduce emissions by 70% by 2035, with longer-term commitment to achieving net zero by 2050. RDA regions across NSW are central to this transformation, some situated within designated Renewable Energy Zones identified by the NSW Government, while others are navigating more fragmented or ad hoc development pathways.

In 2024, the Chairs and Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of the RDA NSW and ACT Working Group resolved to develop a paper capturing the experiences of NSW RDA regions in the rollout of renewable energy projects, with the intention of informing the NSW State Government.

A Project Reference Group engaged external expertise to support targeted engagement. RDA Sydney acted as the principal contractor and liaison point. The consultancy was funded through collective financial contributions from each RDA, reflecting shared commitment to the initiative.

There was a shared recognition that RDA regions are progressing through the transition to net zero at different stages, each facing distinct challenges shaped by their local contexts. Through this process, the RDA NSW and ACT Network deepened its understanding of the renewable energy ecosystem, including the policy frameworks and strategic approaches shaping its implementation.

The process created a valuable opportunity to identify best practice approaches for delivering renewable energy projects across regions, while clarifying the distinct role the RDA Network can play in enhancing community outcomes and ensuring locally grounded benefits.

While the final paper did not introduce new information to the NSW Government, its value lay in clarifying the role of the RDA Network and outlining a pathway for constructive engagement moving forward.

The process allowed for a group of RDAs with a diverse range of agenda to work together to reach a single point of agreement.

As a result of this work, a cohort of NSW RDAs are forming a partnership with The Energy Charter, a CEO-led collaboration of energy companies across Australia and internationally, to deliver better outcomes for consumers and communities.

The Energy Charter has initiated the creation of a national co-designed Regional Energy Accord that includes extensive consultation in communities. The Regional Energy Accord sets out clear principles and practical steps for how energy companies, governments, communities and partners can work together.

The Energy Charter leads the delivery of the Regional Energy Accord through its Regional Energy Collaboration Framework but lacks a local delivery presence, the NSW RDAs can bridge this gap, acting as the in-region implementation partner.

Image Source: RDA Sydney