TransGrid, the NSW electricity transmission network operator, today announced the completion of a $14.9 million project to upgrade the Armidale 330/132kV Substation.
The upgrade will significantly improve the Southern power transfer capabilities of the Queensland-New South Wales high voltage electricity connection.
"Increasing demand in the Mid-North Coast, particularly in the areas of Port Macquarie and Kempsey has placed pressure on this section of the network", said Peter McIntyre, General Manager of Network Development at TransGrid.
"At times, high electricity demand in these areas has prevented the Queensland-New South Wales interconnector performing at its full capacity when importing power from Queensland", said Mr McIntyre.
"It is anticipated that the completion of this will project will improve the security of supply into NSW, reduce network constraints and result in lower prices at times of high demand," he said.
Before commencing the Armidale Substation upgrade, TransGrid considered a number of technical factors which affect the power transfer capability between Queensland and News South Wales.
"A detailed assessment considering various aspects of the existing Directlink and Queensland New South Wales Interconnectors was made before making this important investment at Armidale", said Mr McIntyre.
The Armidale Substation upgrade was first identified as a project of high priority in TransGrid's 2006 Annual Planning Report.
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