The first of two 45-tonne electrical transformers has landed in Queensland and is set to be installed at the Ingham South Substation, further securing the area’s power supply.
Energy Minister, Dr Anthony Lynham, said the transformer was the first of two in a $6 million project to update the Ingham South Substation.
“The transformers at Ingham South are more than 50 years old, having been brought in from another substation in Central Queensland,” Dr Lynham said.
“Replacing them will ensure the ongoing safe, cost-effective and reliable supply of electricity to the Ingham and Hinchinbrook area.
“Queensland’s publicly-owned transmission company, Powerlink, is staging the project to avoid disruptions, with the first transformer to be commissioned by the end of the year.”
The first replacement transformer, measuring more than 6m long and 3.4m high, was taken up the Bruce Highway on a multi-axle trailer and arrived on site at the end of August 2019.
Dr Lynham said the second replacement transformer was scheduled to arrive in Townsville in October and would be delivered to the Ingham South Substation in mid-2020.
The second transformer is expected to be commissioned by late 2020, completing the project.
“The project will support nine jobs and ensure Powerlink’s transmission network meets North Queensland’s long-term energy needs,” Dr Lynham said.
Powerlink Interim Chief Executive, Kevin Kehl, said transformers played a critical role in safely and securely operating the transmission network.
“Transformers convert high-voltage electricity from our transmission network down to a lower voltage suitable for Ergon Energy’s distribution network, which in turn delivers electricity to households and businesses,” Mr Kehl said.
