Australia’s largest electricity grid project, EnergyConnect, is set to invest millions of dollars in local suppliers as it is currently awarding local procurement packages along its alignment in New South Wales following the start of construction on its $1.8 billion interconnector.
Transgrid CEO, Brett Redman, said more investment is planned as the 700km New South Wales section of the interconnector – from the South Australian border to Wagga Wagga – is built by Transgrid’s construction partner SecureEnergy JV.
“Spending in local communities, awarding local procurement packages and buying locally is a key priority,” Mr Redman said.
Mr Redman said the investments and procurement packages reflect the project’s commitment to supporting and developing regional business – now and in the future.
“Through SecureEnergy, we will help local suppliers improve their capabilities for future endeavours right across the alignment.”
Approximately $8 million has been committed to businesses in the local communities so far. This includes accommodation, car hire, plant and equipment hire, personal protective equipment (PPE) and new vehicles equipped with an in-vehicle monitoring system and global positioning system tracking.
Local business owner, Brad Wielstra of Hillis Motor Group in Wagga Wagga, is excited to be working with Transgrid’s construction partner.
“We look forward to the flow-on effects that this project will bring to our company – indeed, the entire region. It will really boost jobs and skills in the Riverina,” Mr Wielstra said.
It is a sentiment shared by Southland Supply Group who have been awarded the PPE tender for the project.
Southland Supply Group National Sales & Marketing Manager, Doug Lindqvist, said investments of this kind helps keep the region strong.
“It is such an important infrastructure development, as well as being a welcome boost for local businesses in regional NSW. This kind of investment in rural areas is what allows businesses like us to keep employing local people,” Mr Lindqvist said.
EnergyConnect is being supported by the New South Wales Government’s Business Connect and Industry Capability Network (ICN).
