Since 2021, OCM has been working with EnergyCo to facilitate a successful transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources in New South Wales. OCM has supported EnergyCo in operating transparently and efficiently in delivering Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap, the NSW Government’s plan to transform the electricity sector into one that is affordable, clean, and reliable, a key lever to deliver on the Government’s commitment to net zero emissions by 2050.
EnergyCo is implementing Renewable Energy Zones (REZ) to efficiently harnessing solar and wind power and is upgrading and expanding the electricity grid to accommodate new renewable sources ensuring a reliable energy supply.
EnergyCo was focused on ensuring transparency and good governance in the procurement process of this implementation to build stakeholder trust and minimise conflicts of interest. This involved a comprehensive strategy aimed at ensuring financial sustainability and minimising costs for consumers, all while promoting environmental sustainability.
OCM has provided guidance on highly strategic and complex procurement processes, addressing the multifaceted challenges expected, promoting effective governance, robust decision-making and building stakeholder trust in alignment with NSW renewable energy goals.
To support EnergyCo in achieving its sustainability objectives, OCM brought together expertise across governance, risk, procurement, probity, grants management, legal and compliance, stakeholder engagement, training and capability building and digital assurance to provide integrated solutions. As the primary probity advisor for the Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap, OCM guided the procurement decision-making process by emphasising fairness and compliance with legislative standards and managing conflicts of interest. This involved engaging community members, industry stakeholders, and regulatory bodies in decision-making was essential to address issues raised and foster support for the transition.
NSW is the first State to progress the implementation of renewable energy zones, moving away from fossil fuels to more renewable energy sources. The successful execution of this initiative has established a model for similar projects in other jurisdictions and laid the groundwork for sustainable energy infrastructure, ultimately reinforcing EnergyCo’s reputation as a leader in the transition to renewable energy.
OCM’s role included facilitating engagement with various stakeholders, including private sector partners, community members, and regulatory bodies. This helped foster a collaborative environment, crucial for the success of the renewable energy transition. OCM also partnered with EnergyCo to build its organisation’s capacity and capability in sustainability governance and probity through training initiatives and business transformation initiatives to build a probity-rich culture.
OCM’s advice has enabled EnergyCo to achieve its strategic sustainability objectives by making procurement decisions that were transparent, defensible, and aligned with regulatory requirements. This ensured that decisions could withstand scrutiny and were perceived as fair and reasonable by stakeholders. The probity advice ensured that there were no disputes or legal challenges arising from contracts, which is crucial in large-scale projects. The absence of any allegations of misconduct or unfair dealings demonstrated effective management of conflicts and compliance with governance standards. By ensuring that procurement processes were well-structured and transparent, OCM helped EnergyCo achieve the lowest possible costs for consumers, a key consideration in large infrastructure projects where financial accountability is critical.
A key insight from OCM’s work with clients is the importance of involving experts in sustainability governance, risk, procurement and probity early in the process. Establishing an effective framework tailored to the project’s needs from the outset leads to smoother implementation and fosters a culture that supports transparent and defensible decision-making and fit-for-purpose sustainability outcomes.
OCM can help you pull the organisational levers required to deliver sustainable transformation – from market engagement to procurement, risk, organisational policies, systems, frameworks and processes, project management, culture, capability and training, IT, data, governance and accountability.
As a trusted advisor, OCM can support you every step of the way with fit for purpose solutions that create value and proactively manage risk. Reach out for a chat about how we can help you today.
OCM respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands across Australia and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present.
