A $22 million works program has begun to ensure the network can continue to meet the current and future needs of Geraldton in the Mid West region of Western Australia.
To meet expected population growth Western Power will decommission the Durlacher Street Substation, which was built in 1972, and move customers supply to the Rangeway Substation, which is less than 20 years old.
Western Power Major Works Program Team Leader Daryl Hatton said upgrading the Rangeway Substation is the best and most cost effective way to secure future supply for Geraldton customers.
“Geraldton’s population and power needs have changed since the Durlacher Substation was built and we want to make sure that our investment provides the best long-term solution for the customer,” Mr Hatton said.
“The work will be done in stages to minimise impact on community and our team has been engaging with local residents to ensure they’re clear about what to expect.”
Construction of stage one will run for around six months beginning August 2017, including installation of the additional Rangeway transformer and new underground cables.
The cables will be installed along Hutchinson Street, North-West Coastal Highway, Johnston Street, Eastern Road, Victoria Street, George Road, and Snowdon Street.
Stage two of the project will begin in 2018 and includes installation of further underground cables. Western Power will give advance notice to residents and work to minimise impacts.
The final stage of the project is decommissioning Durlacher Substation, which is planned from end January 2019 to end December 2019.
