ElectraNet proposes major network upgrades to keep pace with power demand
A $2bn pipeline of electricity transmission upgrades is being proposed by operator ElectraNet as it looks to keep pace with “unprecedented” levels of demand.
A $2bn-plus pipeline of electricity transmission upgrades is being proposed by network operator ElectraNet as it looks to keep pace with “unprecedented” levels of demand from residential and industrial energy users across the state.
Four major projects have been floated as near-term priorities to expand the transmission network, in the state’s Mid North, South East and Eyre Peninsula
They include an investment of up to $2.2bn in new high capacity lines between Cultana and the Para sub-station, or to a new site between Parafield Gardens West and Torrens Island, designed to unlock the potential for a wind and solar zone near Yunta and to improve the security of supply to customers in Adelaide.
A $60m-$90m upgrade to the transmission lines between Cultana and Yadnarie has been proposed to increase the capacity to supply large new customers on the Eyre Peninsula, including the state government’s proposed hydrogen facility near Whyalla.
In the South East, up to $60m has been earmarked for upgrades to the network between Tailem Bend and Tungkillo, aimed at improving connections to renewables projects in the region.
The projects are detailed in an update to ElectraNet’s Transmission Annual Planning Report (TAPR), which has been prepared in response to what the company describes as “unprecedented levels of forecast electricity demand growth in South Australia”.
ElectraNet chief executive Simon Emms said potential new customers in mining, heavy industry and hydrogen production were currently looking to secure around 2000MW in additional supply from the network, which compares to the state’s current maximum electricity demand level of about 3300MW.
“To ensure the infrastructure is available when required, now is the time to commence assessing the feasibility of further strategic investments to meet the state’s forecast clean energy needs,” he said.
“As the South Australian economy continues the transition to 100 per cent renewables, ElectraNet is witnessing a level of interest from large new and diverse electricity loads not seen in half a century.
“We are experiencing an unprecedented level number of enquiries and applications from renewable energy generators, battery providers and customers wanting to connect to the grid and access to access and provide low emission electricity.”
ElectraNet is currently running a public consultation on its proposed expansion of the network, which it says could deliver benefits to customers if developed within the next five or so years.
The projects would require the approval of the Australian Energy Regulator, and would need to demonstrate how they would benefit customers.
Feedback on the updated TAPR closes on June 30.
Meanwhile, ElectraNet is on track to complete the South Australian component of its EnergyConnect interconnector with NSW by the end of this year.
The company recently released modelling that showed the project would deliver annual savings of $127 for a typical residential customer in South Australia once its fully operational in 2026.
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