“This project is an important and significant investment in the Eyre Peninsula that will give residential and business electricity users a more secure and reliable power supply,” Masters said.
“The current transmission line powering the region is over 50 years old and we have spent a considerable amount of time planning for its replacement to ensure it will meet the region’s current and future needs, while also keeping costs as low as possible.
“The cost of the new transmission line is offset by avoiding the cost of replacement works on the existing transmission line and annual generator network support payments, resulting in an estimated annual bill impact of $1 for a ‘typical’ South Australian residential power customer.
“Construction works will also support the local economy with up to 300 jobs created to deliver the works and a large number of South Australian and local businesses throughout the region providing goods and services to the project.
“We are pleased to see that major construction works are now well underway and look forward to delivering this project for all electricity users across the Eyre Peninsula.”
As well as a more secure and reliable power supply for homes and businesses across the Eyre Peninsula, other benefits of the new transmission line include:
• Increased capacity to connect more users to the electricity network
• Enabling new renewable energy and mining projects to connect in the future
• An opportunity to extend the network in future; and
• Contractors supporting the local economies they work within.
Downer was contracted to conduct the detailed design and construction of the project, following an Early Contractor Involvement engagement which involved the preliminary design works and critical procurement activities. Downer is now well underway with construction activities.
Downer chief operating officer Sergio Cinerari said: “I am pleased to see this project commence. It will provide a secure and reliable power supply for the Eyre Peninsula and potential opportunities to introduce future renewable developments to the electricity grid.
“As a leader in power and transmission construction, Downer is pleased to be involved in this significant project and proud of the opportunities this brings for local businesses and the community. Downer has awarded major subcontracts to local civil contractors, transport, quarry material, concrete, crane providers and is continuing to engage in other contracts as the construction progresses.”
ElectraNet and Downer would like to thank the Barngarla Determination Aboriginal Corporation (BDAC) and its members for their ongoing collaboration and support in sharing their knowledge and culture with our workforce and recognise the service they continue to provide with monitoring and identification of the culturally sensitive areas along the construction route.
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