Powerlink has recently published a ‘Project Assessment Draft Report’ (PADR) to maintain reliability of supply at Kamerunga Substation.
Located approximately 10 kilometres north-west of Cairns, Kamerunga Substation, established in 1976, is a major injection point into the Ergon Energy distribution network.
Both the primary plant and secondary systems at Kamerunga Substation are nearing the end of their technical service lives with identified condition and obsolescence issues. The substation is also susceptible to major flooding events which could result in damage to equipment leading to loss of supply.
The first step of the Regulatory Investment Test for Transmission (RIT-T) was the publication of the Project Specification Consultation Report (PSCR) in September 2018 which invited submissions particularly on the credible options which could address the identified need. No submissions were received in response to the PSCR that closed on 21 December 2018. As a result, no additional credible options (network or non-network) have been identified as a part of the PSCR Stage of this RIT-T consultation.
The proposed preferred option (that is demonstrated to satisfy the RIT-T) is to replace Kamerunga’s current primary plant with new AIS equipment, installation of additional circuit breakers for the Woree feeders and the full replacement of all secondary systems in a new building by October 2022. All primary plant and secondary systems are to be located above the 1 in 200 year flood level.
The estimated capital cost of the proposed RIT-T project is $23.75 million in 2018/19 prices. Powerlink is the proponent of this project.
In accordance with the requirements of the Rules, a summary of the PADR has been made available on AEMO’s website. A copy of the entire document can be obtained from the Powerlink Website on the RIT-T Consultations page or by emailing NetworkAssessments@powerlink.com.au.
Submissions on the Project Assessment Draft Report are required by the closing date of Friday 7 June 2019.
Any enquiries in the first instance should be directed to:
Roger Smith
Manager Network and Alternate Solutions
Powerlink Queensland
PO Box 1193
VIRGINIA, QLD 4014
Tel: (+617) 3860 2328