Enabling local suppliers to help deliver the REZ will boost economic growth and support regional business into the future. Major projects in development are expected to increase the demand for goods and services across the region.
EnergyCo has carried out a local supply chain study to understand the kinds of services local businesses can provide, the likely demands from projects, and how EnergyCo can build capability among local suppliers to support delivery of the REZ.
Key terms
Local supply chain
A network of businesses within a region that provide goods, services and expertise to support major projects.
For the New England REZ this includes local industries that can contribute to the delivery, operation and decommissioning of renewable energy projects in the REZ.
Key findings
The study assessed 8 key local supply chain sectors which are expected to support the construction, operation and future decommissioning of renewable energy projects in the REZ.
Development of the REZ is expected to bring demand for each of the local supply chain sectors assessed as part of the study, in particular for construction services, transportation and plant and equipment hire. Renewable energy project developers have identified a preference to source goods and services locally and so there will be opportunities for local businesses to scale to meet these demands.
What we learned
Local industries in key supply chains are well placed to support the delivery of the REZ.
Demand for construction services, transportation and plant and equipment hire will increase during construction, with some specialist skills and equipment needed from outside the region.
While there are some challenges, materials businesses are well placed to adapt to supply renewable energy projects.
Without additional support, small businesses may not be equipped to service new large-scale projects in addition to existing clients.
More publicly available information about supply and demand for the REZ and its project pipeline would help businesses better understand how they can best contribute.
Opportunities for REZ delivery
Demand for supply chain services will peak during construction of REZ developments, with demand mostly reducing during operation and decommissioning.
The study identifies potential opportunities to help the local supply chain scale to support the development of the REZ.
This may include:
Supporting small and medium-sized businesses to partner and tender for work on large-scale projects.
Creating a local supplier database to connect developers with regional businesses, which is now in progress through EnergyCo’s partnership with the Industry Capability Network online hub.
Offering subsidised training to help businesses upskill staff and expand their workforce.
Help shape initiatives for your local area
EnergyCo is holding a community feedback period to hear your thoughts on local issues and priorities for REZ delivery.
Don’t miss the chance to submit your feedback by Friday 20 February, 2026.
Next steps
EnergyCo will consider the study findings in addition to community and stakeholder feedback.
EnergyCo will then work with other government agencies, energy project developers and local councils to develop potential community benefit initiatives and strategies to manage impacts for the New England REZ.
EnergyCo will provide regular updates to the community on the progress of this work, including sharing the findings from the community feedback period in a report early next year.