TransGrid has recently published a Project Assessment Conclusions Report (PACR) for maintaining a reliable Static Var Compensator (SVC) at Lismore.
Lismore substation was commissioned in 1992 and forms part of TransGrid’s northern New South Wales network that serves Lismore and the surrounding area including Ballina, Dunoon, Ewingsdale, Lennox Head, Mullumbimby, Suffolk Park and Casino.
The control system component of the SVC at Lismore has reached a condition that reflects the end of serviceable life. As the condition of the asset continues to deteriorate, the risk of failure of the component which enables the SVC to operate will increase. Ability to support the transmission network is vital for power system security and reliability, therefore the condition issues affecting the Lismore SVC must be addressed.
TransGrid considered credible options that would meet the identified need from a technical, commercial, and project delivery perspective. Refurbishment of the existing SVC control system remains the most economical and preferred option at this stage of the RIT-T process.
No submissions were received in response to the Project Specification Consultation Report (PSCR) during the consultation period which closed in September 2019. No additional credible options that could deliver a material economic benefit were identified throughout the process and the outcomes of the economic analysis contained in the PSCR are maintained in this PACR.
The works for the preferred option are to be completed by 2021/22. The estimated capital cost of the proposed preferred option is $12.1 million ± 25%. TransGrid is the proponent of the proposed network project.
In accordance with the requirements of the National Electricity Rules, a summary of the PACR is made available on the AEMO website. A copy of the PACR can be obtained from TransGrid’s website on the Regulatory Investment Tests page or by emailing RIT-TConsultations@TransGrid.com.au.