TransGrid, the New South Wales electricity transmission network operator, has announced plans to invest $50 million over the next three years on an upgrade of the electricity network between Tomago and Stroud to secure future power reliability to the region.
Increasing population and commercial growth in the Lower Mid-North Coast has steadily increased the demand for electricity in the area. This growth in the region is expected to continue, with maximum demands forecast to rise by as much as 35% over the next 10 years.
“An upgrade to the electricity network will provide a reliable electricity supply for residents into the future,” said Don Paton, Manager of Projects at TransGrid.
TransGrid’s plans include the construction of 6km of new transmission lines between Tomago and Tarro, and the replacement of 65km of existing wood pole power line between Tarro and Stroud Road with a higher capacity concrete pole power line.
“This project is a result of careful planning by TransGrid and local distributors. The upgrade will strengthen this section of the NSW electricity network, necessary to meet increases in demand,” said Mr Paton.
“The new line will provide a more secure and efficient power supply to customers in the region. The new line will provide power to EnergyAustralia’s planned new substation at Brandy Hill, as well as the existing Country Energy Substation at Stroud Road,” he said.
“Construction of the new power line will commence in late 2011, take about 12 months to complete and is expected to create about 30-40 full time jobs during the construction.”
“The proposed upgrade will also make the NSW electricity transmission network more efficient, saving around 13,000 tonnes of CO2 per annum, the equivalent to taking 3,000 average cars off the road.”
TransGrid has written to all landowners who are directly involved in the project and will be contacting them in person over the coming weeks to discuss the project with them.
TransGrid will also be hosting public information sessions at Dungog, Clarence Town and Raymond Terrace during the first week of December to explain the project in detail and invite community feedback. All interested members of the community are encouraged to attend.
TransGrid will complete a detailed environmental assessment of the project, with the environmental studies to commence in early 2010. |
