The extension provided in October 2024 by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (NSW DPHI) grants the Project additional time through to late 2026 for the preparation of a Modification Report.
A ‘Modification Report’ proposes changes to the existing approval including:
- reflecting requirements of the modern National Energy Market
- increasing potential capacity of the project so that more energy can be generated
- including the option for alternative fuels like biofuel or diesel
- minor adjustments to the pipeline route to accommodate landowner requests
- water supply options
- update the impact assessments to meet modern guidelines and regulations
The first step is to prepare a ‘Scoping Report’ which has been submitted to the NSW Government, this includes:
- identifying and assessing alternative project designs, locations, technologies, or operational methods
- comparing each alternative's environmental, economic, and social impacts
- listening to and presenting community and stakeholder feedback about the project
The ‘Scoping Report’ helps identify what may need to be investigated and developed as part of a Modification Report and associated Environmental Impact Statement.
When the ‘Scoping Report’ has been considered by the NSW Government, specific directions may be given to the EnergyAustralia to prepare the Environmental Impact Assessment.
These directions are known as Scoping Advice.  Preparation of a Modification Report and the Environmental Impact Statement can take up to two years.
