The construction of a new 270km, high-voltage transmission line across the Eyre Peninsula is underway, with major works being carried out by ElectraNet and Downer.
ElectraNet Chief Executive, Steve Masters, said the project, called Eyre Peninsula Link, would take about 18 months to complete, with the new line expected to be energised by the end of 2022.
“This project is an important and significant investment in the Eyre Peninsula that will give residential and business electricity users a more secure and reliable power supply,” Mr Masters said.
“The current transmission line powering the region is over 50 years old and we have spent a considerable amount of time planning for its replacement to ensure it will meet the region’s current and future needs, while also keeping costs as low as possible.
“The cost of the new transmission line is offset by avoiding the cost of replacement works on the existing transmission line and annual generator network support payments, resulting in an estimated annual bill impact of $1 for a ‘typical’ South Australian residential power customer.
“Construction works will also support the local economy with up to 300 jobs created to deliver the works, and a large number of South Australian and local businesses throughout the region providing goods and services to the project.
“We are pleased to see that major construction works are now well underway and look forward to delivering this project for all electricity users across the Eyre Peninsula.”
Constructing the Eyre Peninsula Link requires 500 sets of concrete foundation, which will be the foundations of the transmission towers.
The Eyre Peninsula Link will provide the local community with a secure and reliable power supply, increased network capacity, enable new renewable energy and mining projects to connect in the future and create around 300 jobs.
Construction is underway after Downer was contracted to create the detailed design and construction of the project, following an Early Contractor Involvement engagement — comprising the preliminary design works and critical procurement activities.
“I am pleased to see this project commence. It will provide a secure and reliable power supply for the Eyre Peninsula and potential opportunities to introduce future renewable developments to the electricity grid,” Sergio Cinerari, Chief Operating Officer at Downer, said.
Downer has awarded major subcontracts to local civil contractors, transport, quarry material, concrete and crane providers, and is continuing to engage in other contracts as the construction progresses.
ElectraNet and Downer would also like to thank the Barngarla Determination Aboriginal Corporation (BDAC) and its members for their ongoing collaboration and support in sharing their knowledge and culture with the workforce, recognising the service they continue to provide with monitoring and identification of the culturally sensitive areas along the construction route.
For more information about Eyre Peninsula Link, click here.
