Australia is currently undergoing a once-in-a-generation transformation of the energy sector, where traditional fossil fuels are being replaced by renewable energy. Transgrid is one organisation at the centre of this transition by planning and delivering new energy superhighways across NSW and Victoria.
It also operates and manages the high voltage electricity transmission network in NSW and the ACT. This network connects more than 3 million homes, businesses and communities to safe, reliable and affordable electricity supply. By transporting electricity from generation sources, such as wind, solar, hydro, gas and coal power plants, it directly connects industrial customers and the distribution networks that reach homes and businesses.
HumeLink, in NSW, is one of the first – and largest – energy infrastructure projects in Australia, with approximately 360 km of proposed new transmission lines, and new or upgraded infrastructure, at four substations. The significant transformative benefits of this project are:
- The proposed 500 kilovolt transmission line will be one of the nation’s largest energy infrastructure installations. It will connect Wagga Wagga, Bannaby and Maragle in NSW and allow the connection of 3 gigawatt of renewable energy through Project EnergyConnect and the South West Renewable Energy Zone, including the capacity of Snowy 2.0 (2 gigawatt).
- It will supply clean, affordable, and reliable energy to millions of Australians, and move the nation towards a net zero future. It is a priority project for the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) and the Commonwealth and NSW governments, and pivotal to unlocking exponential growth potential for renewable energy generation.
- The project will reinforce the energy grid, provide economic benefits to regional communities through jobs and business opportunities, and support development of new renewable projects at connection points.
Aurecon has been a trusted partner to Transgrid for many years and is now focused on planning and designing HumeLink using advanced digital tools for geospatial analytics and environmental planning. Aurecon defined options for the preferred corridor, identified environmental and social impacts, completed the concept design of the towers and transmission line, produced the environmental impact statement, and completed water hydrology and flooding studies.
Aurecon has also supported Transgrid in consulting with the multiple landowners, general public and community consultative groups using our plan, engage, listen, report and continuous improvement approach. Pending necessary planning approvals, the project is anticipated to begin construction in 2024.
