$79 million Power Boost for Hunter Region

20 June, 2008

Work has commenced on a new $79 million switching station which will reinforce electricity supplies to the Hunter Region, Energy Minister Ian Macdonald said today.

Mr Macdonald said the TransGrid switching station will be located next to Bayswater Power Station in Muswellbrook.

"This facility will provide the means to transfer the electricity generated to the greater electricity network, providing the essential infrastructure needed for families and businesses in regional NSW.

"It will provide a safe and reliable electricity supply to residential and business customers in the Hunter Region as well as provide additional supply to Sydney and Wollongong to meet growing energy needs.

"TransGrid's contractors are now on site, and are on track to complete works by December this year.

"The new TransGrid switching station will allow the existing electrical links to Newcastle, Sydney and the Hunter Region to operate at higher voltages, meeting increased demand in the area.

"The construction of the switching station is part of a larger $330 million investment, known as the Western 500 project, which was initiated to ensure the continued reliability of electricity for future generations in NSW."

Minister Macdonald said the development was part of the State Government's plan to secure future electricity supply for NSW.

"This is about delivering better services and investing in infrastructure to benefit the hardworking families and businesses of areas like the Upper Hunter," he said.

"It demonstrates the Iemma Government is continuing to invest in the State's electricity network, including the poles and wires, which will remain in public ownership."

Media Contact: David Fayyad Corporate Relations Manager