TransGrid, the NSW electricity transmission network operator, will deliver the second of two new transformers to Orange Substation on Monday as part of a major upgrade to the substation.
The new transformer is expected to arrive in Orange in the early hours of Monday 24 May 2010 on two prime movers, will weigh approximately 53 tonnes and be accompanied by pilot vehicles and police escorts.
“A major upgrade of the Orange Substation commenced in mid 2009 and the delivery of the final transformer, a major new component of the substation, is milestone in the progress of this essential project,” said Mr Michael Gatt, Corporate General Manager at TransGrid.
“By mid June, two new transformers will be installed and ready for service at our substation in William Street, effectively increasing the substation’s capacity by more than 25%,” said Mr Gatt.
“Orange Substation provides power to more than 40,000 people in the Orange, Cabonne and Blayney region,” he said.
“The substation plays a key role in delivering a reliable electricity supply to Orange and its surrounds.”
“By upgrading the Orange Substation, TransGrid is making a long-term investment to increase the reliability of electricity supply to the area.”
Unloading operations are scheduled to commence at 7am on Monday and will take around three to four hours. It is expected unloading activities may generate some minor traffic disturbances.
“TransGrid will make every effort to minimise traffic disturbances whilst unloading operations are being undertaken. However, we encourage pedestrians and motorists to follow the directions of the traffic control manager on site on Monday morning,” said Mr Gatt.
The transformer is being transported from Glen Waverley (Melbourne) and its route into Orange will follow the Mid Western and Mitchell Highways before entering the substation site in William Street, Orange.