$1 million Dapto Substation Upgrade Vital Link In Clean Energy Project

12 February 2008

Minister for Energy Ian Macdonald has welcomed TransGrid's recent completion of a $1 million upgrade to the Dapto substation, which will play a vital role in providing the NSW electricity grid with additional energy from the Tallawarra gas-fired power station.

"The TransGrid upgrade is an essential component for bringing one of Australia's most environmentally efficient power stations online later this year," Mr Macdonald said.

"This new infrastructure at Yallah Road will allow power from the Tallawarra power station to be connected to the electricity grid, providing additional generating capacity during times of peak demand and improving reliability of electricity supply across the state.

"The $350 million Tallawarra Power Station, on the shores of Lake Illawarra south of Wollongong, is being built by TRUenergy and ALSTOM.

"This project is a great example of investment by private companies in both the energy and environmental future of New South Wales.

"The Iemma Government is committed to ensuring the people of NSW have the energy they need both now and in the future by encouraging further private investment in environmentally responsible generation capacity.

"This project will provide enough electricity to supply 200,000 homes and business across NSW.

"It will also produce up to 70 per cent less greenhouse gas emissions than some existing coal-fired power stations.

"The Tallawarra project clearly makes the Illawarra region one of the State's crucial clean energy hubs and will prove to be a key in securing a strong economy for the families and businesses of NSW."

Member for Shellharbour Lylea McMahon said she is working with the community to ensure the Tallawarra Power Station is completed with minimal disruption to customers and the environment.

"The power station is generating 550 construction jobs for the local economy and 30 jobs once it's operational - this is exactly the type of investment we want in the Illawarra," Ms McMahon said.

The Tallawarra gas fired power station is expected to come on-line towards the end of 2008.

Media Contact: David Fayyad Corporate Relations Manager