HumeLink open for business to drive renewable energy generation

The new 500 kV transmission line, which will unlock an extra 3,000 megawatts of renewable energy into the grid, has achieved ‘considered project’ status under the National Electricity Rules, allowing official connection enquiries to be formally lodged.

Transgrid Acting Executive General Manager of Network Jason Krstanoski said: “HumeLink is a once in a generation investment in Australia’s energy capability, increasing the amount of renewable energy that can be delivered to the National Electricity Market, and helping move towards a net zero future.

“Once the project is connected to the network, it will unlock the Snowy Hydro Scheme expansion project, Snowy 2.0, which will provide an additional 2,200 megawatts of on-demand energy into the grid – enough energy storage to power three million homes for a week.

“HumeLink will also allow more solar and wind generators, and battery and pumped-hydro energy storage facilities to connect directly to the NSW transmission network, enabling a more reliable and sustainable national electricity grid.”

Main construction works for HumeLink, which will connect Wagga Wagga, Bannaby and Maragle, are expected to begin in coming weeks including 365km of new transmission lines and new or upgraded infrastructure at four substation locations.

The project is expected to deliver more than $1 billion in net benefits for Australian consumers by providing access to more sustainable and affordable energy to homes and businesses.

“Transgrid stands ready to support customers to achieve connection to HumeLink as quickly and efficiently as possible and help meet renewable generation and emissions reduction targets,” Mr Krstanoski said.

“We are working hard to better support our current and future customers to make the connection process as seamless as possible including offering industry briefings and free pre-connection engagements to assist proponents in their planning and help fast-track the process.

“I encourage proponents of new renewable energy generators and energy storage facilities to start discussions with us to enable direct connection to HumeLink to support electricity generation growth and reliability as demand grows and coal-fired power stations retire.”

For more information about the network connections process, visit: https://www.transgrid.com.au/about-us/network/network-connections/

Media enquiries: Mark Nolan 0429 047 136