Overview
Transgrid is proposing to deliver a new 330 kV (kilovolt) transmission line between the existing Mount Piper and Wallerawang substations, located in the LGA of Lithgow and on the lands of the Wiradjuri people.
The Mount Piper to Wallerawang Transmission Line Upgrade Project will carry out upgrades to our transmission network in the State’s Central Tablelands to support the NSW Government’s delivery of the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ).
We are proposing to build a new 300 kV transmission line approximately 8 km in distance between our existing substations located at Mount Piper and Wallerawang.
Project benefits
If approved, the project will deliver a range of benefits including:
- Cheaper electricity – improving the affordability of electricity for consumers by increasing supply and driving down electricity prices
- Improved reliability – by delivering large amounts of new energy and, strengthening and reinforcing the grid in the local region
- Reduced emissions and a greater mix of renewable energy in the National Electricity Market
- New local jobs – opportunities for local workers and businesses during construction
Our preferred route
Transgrid listened to feedback from community and stakeholders in identifying and assessing routes for this project and are grateful for feedback provided. Following Transgrid’s route selection process, community input and assessment of route options, we have identified a preferred route.
The preferred route minimises visual impact for community and the local township and balances landowner preferences and various constraints including engineering, constructability, environmental impacts and cost, to ensure that the outcome is prudent and efficient. The report can be accessed in the resources section on this page.
Transgrid recognises the vital role that stakeholders, landowners and the community have in the planning and delivery of its projects. We are committed to engaging with stakeholders to understand what’s important and work out the best possible solution.
Project Status
Critical State Significant Infrastructure
On 3 July 2024, the Mount Piper to Wallerawang Transmission Line Upgrade Project was declared Critical State Significant Infrastructure (CSSI). CSSI projects are declared when a project is essential for NSW for economic, environmental and social reasons. All CSSI project applications must be accompanied by an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).
Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation
Transgrid submitted a referral under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). The EPBC Act is Australia’s main environmental law and provides a legal framework to protect matters of National Environmental Significance. The project has been decided as a ‘controlled action’ and will need Commonwealth approval. You can view the referral on the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water’s (DCCEEW) website by searching for EPBC Number 2024/09855.
Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)
The Mount Piper to Wallerawang Transmission Line Upgrade Project will follow a comprehensive environmental assessment process. During 2024, Transgrid will conduct an assessment of environmental considerations such as heritage, biodiversity, water catchments, land use, air quality, noise, traffic and transport, visual amenity and much more. The assessment will be documented in an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and placed on public exhibition.
Transgrid have now competed the first step in the environmental assessment process and have submitted the Scoping Report to the Department of Planning Housing and Infrastructure. This document is available to view on the NSW Major Project Planning Portal at: Mount Piper to Wallerawang Transmission | Planning Portal - Department of Planning and Environment (nsw.gov.au)
The image below shows the approvals pathway the project will follow up to 2025.
Contact us
Community Information Line: 1800 222 537 (free call)
Email: network.solutions@transgrid.com.au
Timeline
-
Project announcement and early community and stakeholder engagement begins - Completed
2022 -
Proposed route option released for consultation - Completed
End of 2022 -
Preferred route option selected and Environmental Assessment process starts - In progress
End 2024 -
Project determination - Proposed
2025 -
Construction works - Proposed
2026 -
Project commissioning - Proposed
2028
Community Partnerships Program
Our Community Partnerships Program is designed to help not-for-profit groups to deliver initiatives that will have a tangible and lasting impact on local communities.
Local community groups can apply for grants of up to $5000.
Resources
Mount Piper to Wallerawang Preferred Route Report
Document
Document
Fact sheets
Document
Frequently Asked Questions
Document
Newsletters
Document
Wollar substation upgrade
EnergyCo is building a new switching station at Barigan Creek as part of the Central West Orana REZ transmission project. The project has secured planning approval. Transgrid will construct 500 kV towers to facilitate cutting-in of Barigan Creek, and is proposing upgrades at Transgrid substations located at Wollar, Bayswater and Mount Piper to enable these works.
If you have questions regarding the development of new transmission lines and substations for the Central-West Orana REZ please visit the EnergyCo website or contact EnergyCo on 0482 061 006 or email cwo@energyco.nsw.gov.au.