The Queensland government will invest $25million into Queensland’s electricity grid’s infrastructure to prepare for the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games in 2018.
Powerlink’s Mudgeeraba substation will receive a significant upgrade, including upgrades to the primary and secondary systems, a new transformer, new fencing, a new control building and minor works.
Some redundant equipment will also be decommissioned.
Queensland Treasurer Curtis Pitt said Powerlink’s 45-year-old Mudgeeraba substation was one of two main supply hubs on the Gold Coast.
“This $25million upgrade will improve the performance and reliability of Powerlink’s transmission network in the Gold Coast region, not only for the Games itself, but for many years to come,” Mr Pitt said.
“The Gold Coast Games will attract a global TV audience of 1.5billion, so it’s important our key infrastructure is ready to help showcase the Gold Coast to the world.”
Queensland Energy Minister Mark Bailey said the upgrade will support local jobs.
“The $25million investment will support up to 50 jobs in the local economy.
“This is the lowest cost option for consumers that will extend the life of the substation for many years.
“Rather than undertake a major replacement Powerlink will upgrade specific parts to further extend the life of the existing substation.
“This investment approach is focused on keeping long-run transmission costs as low as possible.
“Importantly, all works have been planned to avoid any disruptions to supply,” Mr Bailey said.
Powerlink Queensland Chief Executive Merryn York said substation system designs and standards had changed significantly since the early 1970s and would continue to improve.
“We want to play our part in GC2018, so the focus of the work will be on replacing the systems which allow us to better manage our network in this region,” Ms York said
“These systems are critical to operating and monitoring our assets and responding rapidly to any unexpected issues that may arise.”
