10 million worker hours recorded on landmark clean energy project

Transgrid and its construction partner Elecnor Australia are delivering the nation-critical project, which is part of the state’s energy backbone, including 700km of new transmission lines stretching from the South Australian border to Wagga Wagga and into Victoria.

Executive General Manager of Major Projects Gordon Taylor said construction of the project – requiring more than 1,500 steel towers and over 10,000km of cabling – has passed the 90% completion mark.

“Ten million worker hours is a remarkable achievement for our project teams and testament to their dedication, resilience and professionalism,” Mr Taylor said.

“In addition to building 700km of new transmission lines, the project also includes one of the largest and most sophisticated substations in the Southern Hemisphere at Buronga, a major expansion of the existing Wagga Wagga substation, and a new world-class substation at Dinawan near Bundure, NSW.

“More than 1,500 people have been a part of this colossal construction effort, from riggers and doggers, to engineers and electricians, to trainees and apprentices, environmental and support personnel.

“We’re pleased to have also worked alongside 325 local businesses to deliver the project, investing more than $264 million in supplier contracts, helping them grow and create local jobs as well as supporting the local economy.

“The project has also trained a home-grown workforce of transmission line construction personnel under the successful Legacy 100 program, helping to address jobs and skills shortages in regional NSW and reducing reliance on overseas labour.”

Mr Taylor said EnergyConnect will link NSW with abundant renewable energy from South Australia and Victoria while increasing capacity for local renewable generation – supporting a healthier environment and stronger economy.

“The project is part of our plan to provide cleaner and cheaper renewable energy to consumers as coal generation retires, providing reliability and affordability which are national priorities,” he said.

“EnergyConnect will help strengthen the national grid, accelerate the renewable energy transition, and position NSW as a leader in clean energy.

“Construction crews have made excellent progress in delivering EnergyConnect this year and we are on schedule to complete the landmark project in 2026.”

Elecnor Australia’s EnergyConnect Project Director Felipe Delgado said the milestone highlights the strength of the project’s collaborative approach.

“Reaching 10 million work hours is only possible when teams, partners and communities work with a shared purposed,” Mr Delgado said.

“EnergyConnect has delivered industry-leading innovation, new skills pipelines, and a safe and disciplined approach to construction across a massive footprint.

“We are proud to stand alongside Transgrid to deliver this once-in-a-generation project that will leave a lasting positive legacy.”

For more information about EnergyConnect, visit: https://www.transgrid.com.au/projects-innovation/energyconnect/

Media enquiries: Jaryd Ramsey – 0421 859 889