AusNet has announced a single corridor for the proposed Western Victoria Transmission Network Project, with a new transmission line needed to transport renewable energy produced in Western Victoria, as Victoria moves from coal-generated energy to renewables.
Following community engagement and investigations, AusNet narrowed down the area of interest to multiple corridors in February 2021 – now identifying a single corridor, considered to be the least constrained.
The selection of the corridor takes into consideration the location of private residences, the surrounding landscape, the environment, cultural significance and the agricultural use of land.
Farming and transmission can occur side-by-side, as they do in many regional communities across Australia.
The corridor will be subject to further study to identify the proposed final route for the proposed 190km transmission line.
Western Victoria currently hosts approximately 4,000MW of renewable energy generation, with this project unlocking potential for a further 900MW.
Executive Project Director, Stephanie McGregor, acknowledged the feedback and input from landholders and communities so far and said AusNet will continue to consult over the latest corridor announced and the right placement of the proposed transmission line within that corridor.
“Nobody knows the land like the landholders themselves. We will work with them to ensure agriculture and other land use can continue along the line with minimal disruption,” Ms McGregor said.
“We have experience working alongside many businesses, farmers and communities across the state who already live, grow crops and operate businesses under our network of 6,500km of existing transmission lines.”
Ms McGregor said that AusNet acknowledges and understands the uncertainty around the issue of farming under potential transmission lines.
“As a result of investigations, consultations and recognition that farming occurs under existing transmission lines in Victoria, we can confirm that farmers will be able to grow crops, including potatoes, within the transmission line easement,” Ms McGregor said.
“Ongoing engagement continues to be our priority. As the EES progresses there will be many opportunities for landowners and the community to provide further input as the process continues.”
To learn more about the project and upcoming community events click here.
