Powerlink Queensland has renewed its partnership with the Bureau of Meteorology, an industry-first collaboration designed to deliver better planning and decision-making on Queensland’s transmission network.
The partnership has seen open sharing of collective specialised knowledge and data since its inception in 2020. It has also delivered targeted research and informed broader research for both organisations to help plan an electricity transmission network that is future fit.
By analysing weather patterns, forecasts and events, Powerlink can understand how different weather conditions affect the demand for electricity, the performance of the transmission network and the availability of renewable energy sources.
For example, when local weather conditions around transmission lines are cooler, more power can be transferred through the system to customers.
The specialised weather data also helps Powerlink to prepare for and respond to extreme weather events, such as storms, cyclones, floods and bushfires, which can damage the transmission infrastructure and disrupt the electricity supply. Weather data helps Powerlink to assess the risks and impacts of these events, implement contingency plans and restore power as quickly and safely as possible.
The new partnership agreement will extend the agreement for another three years to 2026.
Powerlink Chief Executive, Paul Simshauser, said, “Weather has a very real impact on the high voltage transmission network, this collaboration allows us to plan better, respond quicker to ensure Queenslanders have access to reliable electricity.
“Access to this specialised data allows us to push energy through the system in a targeted, more efficient way based on local weather conditions.
“Queensland is also exposed to severe climatic conditions and by understanding these trends and working collaboratively together, we can ensure we have a supply system that is optimised and future fit.
“We are proud to be part of this innovative collaboration that harnesses the power of data and technology to deliver better outcomes for Queenslanders.”
Bureau of Meteorology Chief Executive, Dr Andrew Johnson, said, “The Bureau of Meteorology is committed to providing high-quality climate information and services to support decision-making in the energy sector.
“We are pleased to continue our partnership with Powerlink Queensland on this project, which will enhance our understanding of how climate variability and change affect the electricity network and demand.
“This partnership helps us to improve our climate models and projections, which are essential tools for planning and managing the impacts of climate change on critical infrastructure and communities.”
