Powerlink and Ergon Energy have published a Project Specification Consultation Report (PSCR) to address the risks arising from the condition of key transmission network assets currently providing electricity services to Kamerunga, Cairns and the northern beaches area.
Kamerunga 132kV Substation
Kamerunga Substation, established in 1976, is a major injection point into the Ergon Energy distribution network. The operation of a 22kV distribution network around Kamerunga, Cairns and northern beaches is critical and necessary for the continued supply of electricity into this area.
The primary plant, transformers 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.
In August 2019, Powerlink published a Project Assessment Conclusions Report (PACR) to address the emerging condition risks at Kamerunga Substation. Based on information received subsequent to the conclusion of the consultation process, Powerlink identified a material change in circumstances due to the identification of an additional credible option not included in that Regulatory Investment Test for Transmission (RIT-T), and significant cost increases across all credible options assessed in the cost-benefit analysis undertaken for that RIT-T. This has resulted in a change to the preferred option and construction schedule recommended in the PACR, requiring reapplication of the RIT-T.
The identified need to maintain reliability of supply to Kamerunga assessed under the previous RIT-T consultation has been captured within the broader identified need of this RIT-T, as Kamerunga Substation is a key transmission network asset located in the Far North Queensland zone, providing electricity services to the Cairns and northern beaches area.
Woree to Kamerunga 132kV transmission line
The Woree to Kamerunga 132kV transmission line was first established in 1963. The line operates in an aggressive tropical environment and is nearing the end of its technical service life with the majority of structures exhibiting signs of degradation.
has developed two credible network options to address the Woree to Kamerunga transmission line and Kamerunga Substation condition risks and compliance obligations by 2028.
- Option 1 – Rebuild of transmission line with Overhead/Underground Alignment and Greenfield Air Insulated Switchgear at Kamerunga Substation.
- Option 2 – Rebuild of transmission line with Underground Alignment and Greenfield Air Insulated Switchgear at Kamerunga Substation
Indicative capital costs range between approximately $201m and $221m in 2023/24 prices.
Given the credible options identified include potential works by Ergon Energy that are over the minimum cost threshold (currently $6 million) for the Regulatory Investment Test for Distribution (RIT D), this RIT-T is also being undertaken to discharge Ergon from its obligation to undertake a RIT-D.
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 the Powerlink website on the RIT-T Consultations page or by emailing networkassessments@powerlink.com.au.
Submissions are due by close of business Wednesday, 26 March 2025.
Any enquiries in the first instance should be directed to:
Deni Mauro
Manager Network and Alternate Solutions
Powerlink Queensland
PO Box 1193
VIRGINIA, QLD 4014
Tel: (+617) 3860 2111