Powerlink has identified future supply requirements in the transmission network supplying the Bowen Basin coal mining area. 

The Project Assessment Conclusions Report (PACR) has been prepared following consideration of submissions received in response to the Project Assessment Draft Report. The PACR has been issued in accordance with the National Electricity Rules and has been made available to all interested parties who made a submission in response to the Project Assessment Draft Report.

The Project Assessment Conclusions Report recommends: 

• installation of two 132kV capacitors at Dysart Substation and one 132kV capacitor at both the Moranbah and Newlands substations by summer 2013/14; and
• network support services between 2014 and 2016. 

The estimated capital cost of the proposed preferred option is $12.3 million as well as network support services costs of $11.5 million, in 2011/12 prices. 

In identifying the above option, Powerlink has considered a variation to the reliability standard for the Bowen Basin area that considers costs and benefits to consumers. This approach is consistent with proposals in the Energy White Paper 2012 and a number of national and Queensland reviews. As a result, Powerlink has sought and obtained the approval of the Queensland Energy Regulator to vary the planning standard in the Bowen Basin area until November 2016. 

In accordance with the requirements of the Rules, a summary of the Project Assessment Conclusions Report will be placed on AEMO’s website. The entire document, as well as the consultation register which contains formal submissions to the Project Assessment Draft Report, can be accessed from Powerlink’s website. 

Any enquiries in the first instance should be directed to:

Jennifer Harris
A/Manager Regulation, Strategies and Development
Powerlink Queensland
PO Box 1193
VIRGINIA, QLD 4014

Tel: (07) 3860 2667
networkassessments@powerlink.com.au