Submissions invited on EnergyConnect Environmental Impact Statement

EnergyConnect is a proposed new 900km electricity interconnector (transmission line) which will run from Wagga Wagga in NSW to Robertstown in SA, with a connection to Red Cliffs, in Victoria.

TransGrid is delivering the NSW section of the project. The NSW-Western section is from Chowilla on the SA/NSW border to Buronga in NSW and from Buronga to Monak at the NSW/Victorian border.

The purpose of the EIS is to assess economic, environmental and social impacts of the project and determine measures to avoid or minimise impacts. The EIS has been prepared as part of the conditions under the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) and will be submitted to the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (DPIE).

The EIS is on public exhibition until early December on the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment website and communities are invited to make submissions via the DPIE website. A digital version of the EIS can also be viewed on the Transgrid website.

Executive Manager Major Projects Sean McGoldrick said TransGrid had already received valuable feedback and information from communities, landholders and key stakeholders.

“We encourage people to view the EIS and make a submission. This is an important part of the planning and approvals process and gives the communities a further opportunity to provide comment and feedback before final decisions about the project are made, Mr McGoldrick said.

EnergyConnect information sessions will be held in Buronga and Wentworth this week. Four drop-in sessions will be held to give the community an opportunity to speak to technical experts about a range of topics in the EIS. Project representatives will be available to provide information about the EIS submission process.

Community information session details:

At each information session the project team will adhere to COVID-19 government health and hygiene guidelines, physical distancing rules and NSW Government practices for public gatherings.

“The EnergyConnect team is committed to open and transparent communication and will continue to engage with the community throughout the life of the project. Further community information sessions are being planned for regional NSW in 2021. Sessions will be scheduled for several locations between Balranald and Wagga Wagga to provide information about the NSW-Eastern section of the project,” he said.

TransGrid is supporting Australia’s economic recovery with projects like EnergyConnect which will provide around 1500 jobs and deliver an economic benefit to NSW of $4 billion. EnergyConnect is a key element of the Australian Energy Market Operator’s Integrated System Plan and the New South Wales Government has declared it Critical State Significant Infrastructure.

To speak to a project representative phone 1800 49 06 66, or email pec@transgrid.com.au. For further information about the project visit transgrid.com.au/energyconnect.

Media enquiries:
Michelle Stone 0438 293917
michelle.stone@transgrid.com.au