TransGrid has recently published a Project Specification Consultation Report for managing safety and environmental risks on Line 81 (Newcastle to Liddell).
Constructed in 1964, Line 81 is a 330 kV transmission line which spans approximately 100km between Newcastle substation and Liddell 330 kV switching station. The transmission line is comprised of 288 steel tower structures and forms part of the network that provides a key link between approximately 4,400 MW of existing generation in the Hunter Valley and Newcastle.
A significant proportion of the steel transmission structures of Line 81 are impacted by various levels of deterioration and corrosion. The affected components include tower steelwork, foundations and earthing, insulators, conductor fittings, earthwire and associated fittings. This greatly increases the likelihood of transmission structure failures, conductor drop, and subsequent bushfire and safety risks.
TransGrid considered two credible options that would meet the identified need from a technological and project delivery perspective. Refurbishment of the line is the most economical and preferred option at this stage of the RIT-T process.
The estimated capital cost of the proposed preferred option is $7.9 million ± 25%.
In accordance with the requirements of the Rules, a summary of the Project Specification Consultation Report is made available on the AEMO website.
A copy of the Project Specification Consultation Report can be obtained from TransGrid on the Regulatory Investments Test page or by emailing RIT-TConsultations@TransGrid.com.au
Submissions in response to this Project Specification Consultation Report are required by the closing date of 21 January 2020.