EnergyConnect

SA Interconnector - ElectraNet releases construction final report

20 February 2019

TransGrid is delighted to support ElectraNet and the South Australian government on EnergyConnect - the transformational interconnector project that will involve construction of a new 330 kilovolt (kv) above-ground transmission line connecting South Australia and New South Wales, with an added connection to north-west Victoria.

To progress the proposed solution ElectraNet, last week released a Project Assessment Conclusions Report (PACR) examining the construction of the new interconnector and marking the final step in the Regulatory Investment Test for Transmission (RIT-T) process.

“This is the most comprehensive RIT-T ever produced and I congratulate ElectraNet - with the support of the SA government - on its release,” said CEO Paul Italiano, who was in South Australia for the release.

“Most importantly, like ElectraNet, TransGrid has commissioned independent economic modelling which supports the work done by ElectraNet and confirms energy consumers in both states would benefit from lower prices as a result of this project.

“In addition, this project would deliver significant improvements to security of energy supply, and a more resilient platform for renewable energy generation.

“It is vitally important that this project is thoroughly examined by the Australian Energy Regulator, in order for the community to have confidence in this investment.”

In parallel to the RIT-T process, TransGrid and ElectraNet have also received government support to progress preliminary work to narrow the route corridor.

“Thank you to everyone who has supported ElectraNet and the South Australian government in preparing the comprehensive report and subsequent work required to progress this industry changing project through the RIT-T process.”

Where can I learn more?

More information about the project is available on the Project EnergyConnect website: www.ProjectEnergyConnect.com.au