Transgrid has announced the operationality of the nation-critical EnergyConnect West—Australia’s largest ever energy transmission project.
The 900km transmission line connects the grids of NSW, South Australia and Victoria, strengthening the National Electricity Market, as coal-fired power stations reach end-of-life and retire.
Related article: Transgrid’s EnergyConnect begins energisation process
Transgrid CEO Brett Redman said, “EnergyConnect is crucial for Australia’s energy transition, unlocking access to more affordable and sustainable renewable energy and reducing consumer reliance on expensive fossil fuels.
“The completion of inter-network testing marks the successful transfer of renewable energy between NSW, South Australia and Victoria for the first time, allowing consumers from the three states to utilise power as we unlock greater energy sharing.
“By strengthening connections between states, we’re building a more resilient network, providing greater flexibility for network operators and a more stable energy supply even during disruptions.”
Transgrid and its construction partner Elecnor Australia are completing the larger 700km NSW section of the project while ElectraNet has delivered the 200km section of the interconnector to Robertstown in South Australia.
The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) has now completed internetwork testing on stage one of EnergyConnect’s western section, which includes a 135km-transmission line from Buronga to the South Australian border and a 24km-link from Buronga to Red Cliffs in Victoria.
Internetwork testing by AEMO confirmed the line could now safely transfer 150MW. The transfer capacity will rise to 800MW when stage 2 of the project is completed.
Related article: EnergyConnect reaches milestone with first line completed
EnergyConnect is the first interconnector to directly link NSW and South Australia.
Construction is advancing on the 540km eastern section of EnergyConnect between Buronga and Wagga Wagga, with more than 1,000 people working on the delivery of two new transmission lines and a major substation.
