Client

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD)

Location

Statewide

Background

The DPIRD Sustainability Delivery Program is helping reduce emissions, improve energy efficiency and lower operating costs across its statewide asset portfolio.

NSW Public Works is engaged to develop and deliver a structured, portfolio-wide sustainability program that identifies, prioritises and implements practical energy and emissions reduction initiatives. Through detailed site assessments, energy analysis and business case development, the program is creating a pipeline of investment-ready projects focused on solar energy, energy efficiency improvements and future battery-ready infrastructure.

Our role

NSW Public Works is supporting DPIRD through the planning, assessment and delivery of sustainability upgrades across its diverse property portfolio.
The team developed a structured, evidence-based methodology to assess high-energy facilities, identify opportunities and prioritise sites for investment based on energy demand, emissions reduction potential, deliverability and value for money.

Using whole-of-site sustainability and energy assessments, NSW Public Works is evaluating energy consumption, operational requirements, renewable energy opportunities and infrastructure constraints across research institutes, fisheries facilities and operational sites. These assessments inform detailed business cases, delivery plans and procurement activities, helping DPIRD make informed investment decisions.

The program demonstrates NSW Public Works' role as a strategic delivery partner by translating sustainability objectives into practical projects that can be delivered across multiple regional locations. The team is also establishing a scalable delivery model that can be expanded over time to support future emissions reduction initiatives and ongoing improvements to government infrastructure.

Outcomes

The multi-year program is expected to deliver measurable reductions in emissions, energy consumption and operating costs across regional government assets. Sustainability initiatives include solar PV installations, energy efficiency upgrades and enabling infrastructure that supports future battery storage and broader electrification opportunities.
The program applies a data-driven approach to sustainability investment, ensuring projects are prioritised where they can deliver the greatest environmental and financial benefits. Through comprehensive site audits, baseline development and investment planning, DPIRD is building a long-term pipeline of projects that will support the performance, resilience and sustainability of critical government facilities.
By supporting cleaner energy generation and reducing reliance on grid electricity, the program is helping advance NSW Government net zero objectives while lowering operating costs across regional facilities.

These improvements strengthen the long-term viability of important research, fisheries and operational assets, delivering benefits for government, industry and regional communities.

All images on this page: Examples of sustainability projects delivered or supported by Public Works, including solar, energy efficiency and electric vehicle charging infrastructure and greenroof with biodiverse planting.