A third-party contractor has damaged a piece of equipment while carrying out planned maintenance on the Basslink Interconnector causing an outage.
Basslink stated that the damaged equipment is unique and will require appropriate expertise and equipment from overseas for repair before the interconnector can recommence operations.
Basslink has begun the process to return the Basslink Interconnector to service. Based on current information, its anticipated return to service date is 14 April 2018.
At this point in time, the fault only impacts the electricity interconnector. The Basslink telecoms cable providing broadband services to internet service providers continues to operate.
It is expected Tasmania will instead rely on gas, renewables and wind energy for the duration of the outage.
