The University of Queensland and Curtin University have published an independent analysis to compare overhead and underground transmission line infrastructure.
This report, commissioned by Powerlink, outlines the considerations and trade-offs associated with both overhead transmission lines and underground transmission cables. It delves into a broad range of technical, economic, environmental, social, and cultural factors crucial for expanding Australia’s electricity grid to support the ongoing energy transformation.
The Federal Government has set a goal of more than 80 per cent of electricity coming from renewable energy by 2030, and one of the key pillars of this transition is the expansion of the grid to connect regional wind and solar projects, which involves new or upgraded transmission lines.
The Comparing High Voltage Overhead and Underground Transmission Infrastructure report delves into the complexities of this endeavour, recognising the technical, economic, environmental and social constraints that impact society’s response.
The report’s lead author and Director of the Curtin Institute for Energy Transition, Professor Peta Ashworth, said the research underscores the need for increased public understanding of why new transmission infrastructure is needed and the trade-offs involved.
“While the decarbonisation of Australia’s energy system is a global imperative, an informed and engaged public is crucial to ensuring fairness and understanding during this transformative journey,” Prof Ashworth said.
“Our research makes it clear that without strategic grid expansion, a successful transition to an eco-friendly economy is at risk and navigating the challenges ahead requires strong leadership, community involvement and fair consideration of all stakeholders.”
Co-author Professor Tapan Saha from The University of Queensland’s School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science said the report also found from a technical standpoint, high voltage alternating current (HVAC) underground cable transmission, while feasible, is limited to relatively short lengths due to the high electrical capacitance of transmission cables. High voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission can be considered as a viable option for long point to point connections and other specific applications.
“The challenges of underground cable transmission are rooted in the significant charging currents associated with their highly capacitive characteristics and reactive power compensation plants are necessary to mitigate the resultant energy losses, making this option economically demanding,” Prof Saha said.
To read the full report, visit, www.powerlink.com.au/brochures/comparing-overhead-and-underground-transmission-infrastructure
Featured image: Powerlink
