TransGrid has recently published a Project Specification Consultation Report (PSCR) for managing safety and environmental risks on Line 18 (Kangaroo Valley – Dapto).
Commissioned in 1974, the 43 km single circuit 330 kV transmission line is comprised of 107 steel tower structures between Kangaroo Valley switching station and Dapto 330 kV substation. The section from Kangaroo Valley to Robertson was built in 1974 whilst the remaining section to Dapto substation was built in 1962, previously part of a Yass-Dapto connection. Line 18 forms a key link between the Shoalhaven and Wollongong regions and supports the transmission of electricity from existing generators in southern NSW to the major load centres of Sydney, Newcastle and Wollongong.
Condition issues that will impact the safe and reliable operation of the network have been found on Line 18. The condition issues raise a number of risks associated with asset failure, including safety and environmental (bushfire) risks. Investment to address the deterioration of the assets along Line 18 due to corrosion is needed to mitigate risks to safety and the environment.
TransGrid manages and mitigates bushfire and safety risks to ensure they are below tolerance levels or ‘As Low As Reasonably Practicable’ (‘ALARP’), in accordance with TransGrid’s obligations under the New South Wales Electricity Supply (Safety and Network Management) Regulation 2014 and TransGrid’s Electricity Network Safety Management System (ENSMS). The proposed investment will enable TransGrid to continue to manage and operate this part of the network to a safety and risk mitigation level of ALARP. Consequently, it is considered a reliability corrective action under the RIT-T.
In the PSCR TransGrid presented one credible network option that would meet the identified need from a technical, commercial, and project delivery perspective. Two other options to address the need were considered but were not progressed due to technical and commercial feasibility. The optimal commercially and technically feasible option presented in this PSCR – Option 1 (line refurbishment) – is the preferred option to meet the identified need.
The estimated capital cost of this option is approximately $8.66 million +/- 25 per cent. TransGrid is the proponent of the proposed network project.
TransGrid welcomes written submissions on materials contained in this PSCR. Submissions are particularly sought on the credible options presented and from potential proponents of non-network options that could meet the technical requirements set out in this PSCR. Submissions are due on 21 August 2021.
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 TransGrid’s website or by emailing RIT-TConsultations@TransGrid.com.au