Transgrid says permanent reconstruction works on the transmission line supplying communities in Far West NSW are moving into overdrive south of Broken Hill, with specialist crews completing civil foundation works and delivery of steel pole structures to site.
Eight permanent steel structures will be installed on the 3.5km section of the 220kV transmission line damaged by the extreme weather event in October 2024.
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Up to 30 personnel are on site and have completed the earthworks to create construction pads ready for the installation of eight steel structures.
Transgrid delivery partner Civil Group Australia has also completed drilling and concrete pouring to create 18 foundations for the new permanent pole structures. Six 40m-tall H-frame transmission structures and two, three-pole tension structures have been delivered to site. The components will be moved to their individual locations shortly in preparation for erection works in April. Stringing of high-voltage conductor is expected to be undertaken in May.
The switchover to the new permanent section of the transmission line has been planned to avoid wherever possible any interruption to the communities of Far West NSW.
Head of Transgrid’s far west operations response Sam Pickering said the $9 million project is on schedule to be completed mid-year.
“Over the past four weeks, crews have worked hard to complete civil works to create the construction pads and foundations for the permanent steel structures which will replace the emergency towers installed last year following the severe weather event,” he said.
“The site, about 50km south of Broken Hill, will continue to be a hive of activity as we carry out the next stage of erecting the eight steel structures before conductor stringing is undertaken.
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“As part of our comprehensive maintenance program, Transgrid carries out regular inspections of the 260km transmission line from Buronga to Broken Hill to ensure its ongoing safety and reliability.
“We are continuing to work with local communities, governments, regulators, and other key stakeholders to develop longer-term solutions to ensure the provision of safe, reliable and affordable energy to Broken Hill and surrounding towns.”
