The Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands region is in a unique position to lead NSW clean energy innovation and transition and we are ready, growth of the region has the potential to generate 15,000+ jobs and inject $10–15 billion into the NSW economy over the next two decades.
Clean Energy Advocacy
OUR REGION'S CRITICAL ROLE IN POWERING NSW
The Illawarra is emerging as one of Australia’s most important clean energy and industrial transition regions.
With deep expertise in manufacturing, research, port infrastructure and energy generation, our region is uniquely placed to lead the shift to low-emissions industry while supporting jobs, investment and long-term economic resilience.
NSW SHOULD:
- Appoint an Illawarra Clean Energy Commissioner to identify and secure advanced manufacturing opportunities for wind, hydrogen, and battery sectors; and to work with state and federal investment, streamlining red tape, progress approvals, and supporting local manufacturing of clean energy infrastructure. e.g. large-scale energy projects are cross government by nature.
- Operationalise the Illawarra REZ: The Illawarra REZ was declared two years ago, however, there is no clarity on progressing projects or investment into this zone. The lack of clarity on this project is destabilizing investment in the sector.
Fast-tracked grid transmission upgrades to operationalise the REZ are required to be prioritised. - Commit funding to advance the Hydrogen Hub: The vision of creating Australia’s first 5GW+ green hydrogen hub in the Illawarra.
BOC and ACTO have plans on place for large scale projects. A funding program is needed to assist in facilitating major energy projects that create new renewable energy infrastructure to enable large scale green hydrogen production and usage. More information available here.
Our role
Advocate for policy settings that support a successful and just transition
Connect business, government, research and industry
Ensure regional voices are heard in state and national energy discussions
Support businesses navigating change and opportunity
Promote the Illawarra as a destination for clean energy investment
Background
The Illawarra is emerging as one of Australia’s most important clean energy and industrial transition regions.
With deep expertise in manufacturing, research, port infrastructure and energy generation, our region is uniquely placed to lead the shift to low-emissions industry while supporting jobs, investment and long-term economic resilience.
Why the Illawarra matters in the clean energy transition
The transition to clean energy is not just about generation — it’s about industry, supply chains, workforce and place. The Illawarra offers:
A internationally significant industrial base, including steelmaking and advanced manufacturing
Strategic port infrastructure critical to future energy imports, exports and logistics and access to 3 international airports, Sydney, Canberra and Western Sydney.
World-class research capability through the University of Wollongong and partners
Existing and planned energy assets supporting firming, storage and generation and leading innovation in business.
A skilled workforce with experience in heavy industry and energy systems
Together, these strengths position the region as a key contributor to NSW and Australia’s energy future.
the clean energy ROAD MAP
In July of 2025 Business Illawarra officially launched the Illawarra Clean Energy Roadmap, outlining a bold and strategic vision to position the region as Australia's clean energy powerhouse. The report was contributed to by thirteen industry innovators alongside the University of Wollongong and Business Illawarra
"The roadmap reflects deep collaboration across the region's business leaders. It provides a clear and achievable path to deliver the region as a national leader in clean energy" Business Illawarra Director, Coralie McCarthy
The Illawarra's strategic geographical position, existing industrial base and skilled workforce make it well placed to attract investment and transition to a clean innovative and resilient economy. Key elements of this vision include:
- Leadership in Renewable Energy
- Economic Growth and Job Creation
- Innovation and Investment
- Sustainable Infrastructure Development
- Community and Environmental Stewardship
- Education and Skill Development
Business Illawarra continues to meet with NSW and Federal Government stakeholders to advance priorities and key findings of the road map.
the clean energy hub
Currently under development, the Business Illawarra Clean Energy Hub brings together projects, research, businesses, skills and investment shaping this transformation, providing a single place to understand what’s happening, what’s coming next, and what it means for the region.
Use the Hub to explore:
Major projects and investments
Workforce and skills pathways
Research and innovation
Supply chain opportunities
Funding and grants
Events, news and insights
As the clean energy transition and industry in the region grows, this Hub will continue to grow — reflecting new projects, partnerships and opportunities as they emerge.
WHAT'S NEXT?
- Backed by the Illawarra First Fund, work is underway to scope the next energy research work with our First Members and Illawarra Regional Advisory Council.
- Business Illawarra will host a Future of Energy Summit in August 2026, more details to come. Please contact us if you would like to know more.