The new Department of Energy, Utilities and Sustainability announced by the Premier on 20 November 2003 will be established with effect from 1 January 2004.

The new Department will absorb the Ministry of Energy and Utilities (MEU), building on its expertise and experience in greenhouse, demand management, water and energy policy and energy networks safety and performance.

Functions currently within the Sustainable Energy Development Authority (SEDA) that deal with demand management, energy efficiency and renewable energy will ultimately transfer to the new Department.

Pending the finalisation of recruitment action, Mr Brian Steffen, the current Director-General of the Ministry of Energy and Utilities, will be the Acting Director-General of the new Department until his departure from the Public Sector on 6 February 2004.

The new Department will fall within the portfolio of the Minister for Energy and Utilities, the Hon. Frank Sartor MP. It will work closely with the soon to be established NSW Greenhouse Office and agencies such as the Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources and the Department of Environment and Conservation to ensure cross-government coordination.

It would be appreciated if you would bring this Circular to the attention of all senior officers in your administration requesting them to ensure that it is disseminated to relevant officers in your agency so that recognition of the new Department and its purpose is achieved effectively and promptly.

C Gellatly
Director-General

Issued : Workforce Capability ( Public Employment Office)
Contact: Robert Horrocks, Senior Project Officer
EMail: [email protected]
Telephone no: 9228 4263 Facsimile: 9228 3577
File no: PSM/05068
Date: 15 December 2003