The publication of this Project Specification Consultation Report (PSCR) represents the first step in the RIT-T process. It relates to AusNet’s plans to replace deteriorated porcelain disc and end of life composite insulators which serve to safely support/connect the transmission line phase conductors on the transmission towers. This project is focused on the replacement of Doulton type insulators, following a failure in January 2024 along the HWTS-SMTS 500kV #2 line which caused a conductor drop and line outage. As explained in this PSCR, there are no non-network options that could address the identified need.
In accordance with clause 5.16 of the National Electricity Rules (NER) and section 4.2 of the AER’s RIT-T Application Guidelines, this PSCR sets out:
- the identified need that AusNet is seeking to address, together with the assumptions used in identifying this need;
- a description of the credible network options that may address the identified need, including our reasons why there are no credible non-network options;
- the technical characteristics of each credible option;
- the classes of market benefits that AusNet considers are unlikely to be material, together with our reasoning;
- the estimated construction timetable and commissioning date; and
- the total indicative capital and maintenance costs for each option.
In accordance with clause 4.2 of the AER’s Application Guidelines, we are seeking submissions on the matters set out in this PSCR. Notification of our request for submissions will be provided to Registered Participants, AEMO, non-network providers, interested parties as required by the NER. We will also publish this report on our website. The closing date for submissions is 13 June 2025.
Any questions regarding this report should be directed to: rittconsultations@ausnetservices.com.au or please contact to Alex De Young on (03) 9695 6000.