TransGrid Armidale Substation Upgrade on Target

22 June 2006

TransGrid the New South Wales high voltage electricity network manager announced that work is progressing on the upgrade of the Armidale 132kV Substation with the delivery of the first of the substation's two new transformers. The two new 132/66kV transformers are twice the size of existing transformers and represent a capital outlay of $6.4 Million by TransGrid.

The first transformer arrived on site on the 16th June 2006 and is scheduled to be placed in service by the end of July 2006. A second transformer is due to be installed later in the year, doubling the substation's capacity to meet the electricity needs of the area.

The project manager, Mr Hai Tran said "the original transformers were installed some fifty years ago and whilst they have provided reliable and valuable service over this time, regional demand has grown to the point that extra capacity is required.

He went on to say "this upgrade will provide the region with additional capacity to meet current and future demand for the continued development of this important area which is experiencing growth in its population".

TransGrid's capital works program, amounting to over $1.1 billion over the next five years across New South Wales, means that the people of New South Wales and the State's economy will continue to reap the benefits of a secure, safe and reliable high voltage grid.

For further information:
Contact: Joe Zahra
Telephone: (02) 9284 3300
Facsimile: (02) 9284 3522
Mobile: 0411 258 566