EnergyConnect is celebrating a major milestone, with consumers utilising electricity for the first time from the project’s western section.
The 900km project is Australia’s largest energy transmission project and connects the grids of New South Wales, South Australia and Victoria, strengthening the National Electricity Market, as coal-fired power stations reach end-of-life and retire.
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 New South Wales, 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 New South Wales section of the project, while ElectraNet has delivered the 200km section of the interconnector to Robertstown in South Australia.
In addition to a more secure and strengthened network, Transgrid said the project is creating an economic boom in regional New South Wales, with more than 1500 jobs generated and over $200 million invested to date with local and First Nations businesses.
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.
“This vital interconnector links lower cost renewable energy from South Australia and Victoria to consumers in New South Wales, generating more competition in the wholesale energy market and ensuring customers benefit from the lowest possible prices,” Mr Redman said.
“EnergyConnect isn’t just about connecting more generation across our state; it’s about building a robust, interconnected energy future for Australians.”
Internetwork testing by AEMO confirmed the line could now safely transfer 150MW. The transfer capacity will rise to 800MW when stage two of the project is completed.
EnergyConnect is the first interconnector to directly link New South Wales and South Australia.
ElectraNet CEO, Simon Emms, said EnergyConnect is a transformational project for South Australia.
“The interconnector strengthens South Australia’s position as a leader in the transition to a low carbon economy and enhances our ability to export our abundance of renewable energy resources.
“The project will significantly strengthen the state’s electricity network and will help make power more reliable, affordable and sustainable for South Australian consumers.”
Construction is advancing on the 540km eastern section of EnergyConnect between Buronga and Wagga Wagga, with more than 1000 people working on the delivery of two new transmission lines and a major substation.
