The reliability and efficiency of AusNet’s electricity network is set to improve, with the utility undertaking major upgrade and maintenance works.
A critical upgrade at the Benalla Zone Substation, which is reaching the end of its service period, will replace some of the equipment, extending its lifespan for another 50 years.
To safely complete the necessary works to switch over from the old power assets to the new, AusNet will turn power off between 8am to 6pm on Sunday 4 May 2025.
In parallel with the substation works, AusNet will also undertake more than 70 maintenance jobs originally planned for later in 2025, including power pole and fuse replacements across the Benalla Rural Council and Mansfield Shire areas, to reduce the need for some future outages in the area.
AusNet General Manager Network Operations and Delivery, Ross Young, said that the utility had engaged with customers about the planned works and agreed to schedule them on a weekend in an effort to minimise the impact of the power outage required for the substation upgrade.
“We know that it’s inconvenient to be without electricity, but by completing the works on the weekend it avoids disruption to local businesses and schools and ensures that we can complete this essential upgrade before the snow season, therefore avoiding peak tourism impacts,” Mr Young said.
AusNet said affected customers have already received a notification about the planned outage, with approximately 12,500 customers expected to be without power to complete the work.
