Delays in Australia's Hunter Transmission Project threaten renewable energy goals and net zero targets due to cost overruns, land disputes, and weak oversight.

The Australian Energy Market Operator warns delays in the Hunter Transmission Project—now expected by November 2029—threaten the country’s renewable energy goals, citing cost overruns, land disputes, and weak oversight. Without timely grid upgrades, investments in solar and wind projects across key renewable energy zones may stall, jeopardizing national net zero targets. Concerns include inadequate landholder compensation, environmental damage risks, and lack of community benefits, amid centralized approval power and limited transparency. AEMO’s draft 2026 Integrated System Plan emphasizes large-scale renewables and transmission expansion, calling for stronger community engagement, but does not yet include a 1.5°C-aligned transition path.