EnergyConnect

EnergyConnect is Australia’s largest energy transmission project. It involves building a new 900km transmission line to connect the energy grids in New South Wales (NSW), Victoria (VIC) and South Australia (SA). This will help improve reliability and security of electricity supply and allow for future connections from renewable energy sources.

This Critical State Significant Infrastructure (CSSI) project is a key element of the Australian Energy Market Operator's Integrated System Plan for a more sustainable energy future.

With planning approvals obtained, construction is underway.

Work on EnergyConnect West, between Buronga and the SA and VIC borders, is progressing well. Most of the transmission towers have been erected, and the Buronga substation is starting to take shape.

Our delivery partner, Elecnor Australia, will be carrying out the following activities on EnergyConnect East, at various locations between Buronga and Wagga Wagga, until the end of the year:

• Removal of any vegetation necessary along the construction corridor
• Minor road works
• Creating vehicle entry and exit points for safe vehicle movements between roads and the construction corridor and worker camps
• Preparing the reinforced concrete foundations for the transmission towers

For more information about EnergyConnect construction activities, visit EnergyConnect - Elecnor (secureenergyjv.com.au). You can also reach the project team by calling 1800 49 06 66 or by email at pec.community@elecnor.es

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Transgrid is partnering with ElectraNet to deliver EnergyConnect. ElectraNet is building the South Australian component and Transgrid is building in NSW. The NSW component, which is being delivered by our construction partner, Elecnor Australia, is split into two sections:

NSW-Western Section 

• The NSW Government approved the EnergyConnect NSW–Western Section in September 2021.
• Work involves building around 135km of new 330kV transmission line infrastructure between the SA border and Buronga and upgrading about 22km of existing 220kV transmission between the Buronga substation and the NSW/Victoria border.
• Construction started in 2022 and work is underway at various locations across the western project area.

NSW-Eastern Section

• In September 2022 the NSW Government approved the NSW-Eastern Sectionfollowing a thorough review of the project’s Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The Commonwealth Government approved the NSW-Eastern Section in December 2022 following assessment by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water. 
• The Eastern section involves building around 375km of new 330kV transmission line between Buronga and the new Dinawan substation (Bundure), near Coleambally as well as just over 160km of 500kV transmission line infrastructure from Dinawan to Wagga Wagga. Upgrades are also currently underway at the existing substations at Buronga and Wagga Wagga.
• Work started in mid-2023. Early works including site clearing, creating access roads and preparing foundation will continue until the end of the year, with the first transmission towers expected to go up from early 2024.

For a more detailed view of the EnergyConnect route, please visit our Interactive map.

We strive to create lasting benefits for the communities in which we work. Some key initiatives in place as part of EnergyConnect include:

• Legacy 100: Transgrid and our construction partner, Elecnor, have launched this training initiative to boost skills in the power transmission sector across regional NSW. We’re seeking up to 100 candidates to complete qualifications in Transmission Line Construction. Applications are now open - Learn more
• CSU Scholarships: Transgrid has partnered with Charles Sturt University to help train the nation’s next generation of engineers and address Australia’s infrastructure skills shortage. Visit the Transgrid Civil Engineering Scholarship page to learn more. 
• Community Partnerships Program: This program offers grants of up to $5,000 for not-for-profit organisations that are local to our planning, operations, and major project areas. Applications are typically open in March and September each year. Visit our program page to learn more.
• RDA partnership: Transgrid and Regional Development Australia (RDA) Riverina have formed Workforce Development Strategic Partnership to deliver jobs and skills boost as the region becomes a hub for the country’s renewable energy transformation. The partnership will secure substantial economic, employment and education benefits and support RDA Riverina’s key programs over the next three years.

Community Information Sessions

Project EnergyConnect is committed to engaging with local communities across our alignment.

We are excited to attend the Hay Public School ‘Rock&Roll’ Fete on Thursday 4 April from 4.30pm – 7.30pm. As a gold sponsor of the event, Project EnergyConnect are looking forward to what promises to be a great event.

We will be on site to provide project updates as well as answer any questions you may have regarding project EnergyConnect.

• Toll-free phone number: 1800 49 06 66
• Email: pec@transgrid.com.au

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