Transgrid has recently published a Project Specification Consultation Report (PSCR) for managing safety and environmental risks on Line 24 (Vales Point – Eraring).
Spanning a route of 30km, Line 24 is a 330 kV transmission line that runs between Vales Point and Eraring substations. It was originally commissioned in 1969 as part of the line which ran from Vales Point substation to Newcastle substation. The section of Line 24 being addressed by this RIT-T is the single circuit section between the Eraring cut-in and Vales Point substation, a length of approximately 28km. This section is comprised of 79 steel towers.
Line 24 is a key link between two generators on the NSW Central Coast. It will continue to play a central role in supporting the flow of energy to take advantage of naturally-diverse weather patterns, and in the safe and reliable operation of the power system throughout and after the transition to a low-carbon electricity future.
Condition issues that will impact the safe and reliable operation of the network have been found on Line 24. The condition issues raise a number of risks associated with asset failure, including safety and environmental (bushfire) risks. Investment to address the deterioration of the assets along Line 24 due to corrosion is needed to mitigate risks to safety and the environment.
Transgrid manages and mitigates bushfire and safety risks to ensure they are below tolerance levels or ‘As Low As Reasonably Practicable’ (‘ALARP’), in accordance with Transgrid’s obligations under the New South Wales Electricity Supply (Safety and Network Management) Regulation 2014 and Transgrid’s Electricity Network Safety Management System (ENSMS). The proposed investment will enable TransGrid to continue to manage and operate this part of the network to a safety and risk mitigation level of ALARP. Consequently, it is considered a reliability corrective action under the RIT-T.
In the PSCR Transgrid presented one credible network option that would meet the identified need from a technical, commercial, and project delivery perspective. Two other options to address the need were considered but were not progressed due to technical and commercial feasibility. The optimal commercially and technically feasible option presented in this PSCR – Option 1 (line refurbishment) – is the preferred option to meet the identified need.
The estimated capital cost of this option is approximately $8.9 million +/- 25 per cent. Transgrid is the proponent of the proposed network project.
Transgrid welcomes written submissions on materials contained in this PSCR. Submissions are particularly sought on the credible options presented and from potential proponents of non-network options that could meet the technical requirements set out in this PSCR. Submissions are due on 30 March 2022.
In accordance with the requirements of the National Electricity Rules, a summary of the PSCR is made available on the AEMO website. A copy of the PSCR can be obtained from Transgrid’s website or by emailing RIT-TConsultations@Transgrid.com.au