New South Wales transmission progress could unlock new wind capacity

The Hunter transmission project is critical for NSW’s energy security, involving a new high-voltage power line that will transport wind and solar-generated electricity from central-west Orana and New England to homes and businesses across the south-eastern Australian state.

Key onshore wind projects planned in the renewable energy zones include Squadron Energy’s 700MW Spicers Creek wind farm, Tilt Renewables’ 1332MW Liverpool Range Acen Australia’s 936MW Valley of the Winds. Several others are still in the investigation phase. The hope is that future offshore wind capacity can also be accommodated.

Transgrid has committed to deliver, operate and maintain the Hunter transmission project. It will work with EnergyCo as the project is developed.

The project involves building a new above-ground 500kV transmission line spanning around 100km between Bayswater in the Upper Hunter and Olney in the Lower Hunter. This will connect the existing 500kV transmission lines already operated by Transgrid.

The resulting ring of 500kV transmission infrastructure will provide the backbone of the state’s electricity grid.

The appointment of Transgrid as network operator remains subject to execution of a final delivery contract between EnergyCo and Transgrid, award of design and construct packages and other necessary approvals for the project.

EnergyCo is finalising tender documents for transmission and substation work packages. Seven companies have been shortlisted to take part in the tenders.