More than 850 NSW and Australian businesses have registered their interest in working with TransGrid on one of the nation’s largest energy infrastructure projects, EnergyConnect.
TransGrid and ElectraNet will soon lodge a Contingent Project Application with the Australian Energy Regulator (AER) for final project approval.
If approved, the project would provide an opportunity for businesses across a number of areas to be involved in the transmission project, which is due to commence construction in late-2021.
“We are encouraging Australian businesses to get involved in EnergyConnect, a major infrastructure project being developed by TransGrid and ElectraNet,” said Executive Manager of Major Projects Sean McGoldrick.
The proposed development of the 900-kilometre electricity interconnector will enable the sharing of energy between NSW, Victoria and South Australia, lower wholesale energy costs and support growth in renewable energy generation.
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“EnergyConnect will provide around 1500 jobs and deliver an economic benefit to NSW of $4 billion. More than 850 businesses have already registered their interest and we hope to see more before the end of the month,” he said.
The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) approved the Regulatory Investment Test for Transmission (RIT-T) for EnergyConnect in January. If approved, it will be built near identified Renewable Energy Zones, to allow future renewable energy projects to connect to the grid.
EnergyConnect has been identified as a priority project in both AEMO’s Integrated System Plan and the NSW Government’s Transmission Infrastructure Strategy.
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TransGrid will deliver EnergyConnect with a lead contractor, and local businesses are encouraged to submit an Expression Of Interest (EOI) via the Industry Capability Network. Work packages include civil engineering, quarry products, haulage, logistics, traffic management, concreting, fencing and workforce accommodation.
EnergyConnect will also look to set new benchmarks in ATSI workforce participation, with Indigenous-owned businesses expected to play a substantial role in project delivery.
EnergyConnect is due to be fully commissioned by 2023. For more information about Project EnergyConnect go to http://www.projectenergyconnect.com.au.
Interested businesses should submit an EOI via the Industry Capability Network.
