Balranald transmission line re-energised after storm restoration works

Transgrid has successfully installed seven temporary towers and high-voltage conductors along the 2km section of transmission line impacted by the severe storm on January 19.

The 220 kV transmission line was re-energised on Tuesday night (3 February) with no power supply interruptions to the Balranald and surrounding communities.

More than 100 personnel travelled from across NSW and Victoria to undertake the complex operation including maintenance and operations staff from Transgrid depots at Newcastle, Orange, Tamworth, Wagga Wagga, Wallgrove (Eastern Creek) and Yass.

Heavy machinery used during the line restoration works included elevated work platforms and cranes.

Power was supplied to local communities via another transmission line during the emergency works.

Transgrid General Manager of Operations and Maintenance Sam Pickering said crews experienced extreme heat and dust conditions during the two-week operation on private property south of Balranald.

“I would like to thank our dedicated field teams and contractors who worked in very challenging conditions to complete the transmission line restoration works safely and efficiently. These include Astar Rigging Constructions, Consolidated Power Projects, Leader Cranes, Quinlan Cranes, LinCon Hire & Sales and On The Wire Services,” Mr Pickering said.

“We had to adjust our normal practices to account for the extreme weather conditions, which made the operation more complex, including introducing heat mitigation measures, on top of our standard safety provisions, to support our personnel.

“I would also like to thank the landowner and our customers and local communities for their patience and understanding as we completed these essential transmission works as quickly and safely as possible.”

Planning will now get underway to design and install permanent transmission towers.

Media enquiries: Mark Nolan 0429 047 136