Setback for Bruny Island power cable replacement

A two-year project to replace a damaged underwater cable supplying power to Bruny Island has suffered a significant delay. SEE THE VIDEO >>

THE replacement of an underwater cable supplying power to Bruny Island has been delayed by a year, TasNetworks has confirmed.

The cable, between Tinderbox and Dennes Point, was one of two supplying power to the island.

It failed on November 3, 2019, with the damaged section later found with a boat anchor hooked onto it.

TasNetworks said the damage was irreparable, with an expected replacement cost of $2.5m.

In the interim, two extra diesel generators were installed at Alonnah.

The replacement was expected to take up to two years.

But TasNetworks has now confirmed it could take longer.

“We expect to install and commission the new cable by Christmas 2022,” a TasNetworks spokesman said.

The damaged section of the power cable.

The confirmation comes after concerns were raised by Labor’s Dean Winter that the island’s power capabilities could be tested as more tourists visit the area in summer.

The TasNetworks spokesman said the power supply would remain stable.

“We expect Bruny’s power supply to remain secure and stable over summer, despite some delays in the cable project,” he said.

“The new cable is planned for the same route as the original [Dennes Point to Tinderbox]. That takes in the Tinderbox Marine Reserve (managed by Parks), which requires extra surveys, mitigation measures and approvals before proceeding.”