ElectraNet and TransGrid are partnering
to deliver an energy interconnector
between the power grids of South
Australia and New South Wales, with an
added connection to Victoria

Current status

The Project is undergoing a Regulatory Investment Test for Transmission, known as a RIT-T.
This test is a rigorous cost benefit analysis overseen by the Australian Energy Regulator (AER).
We should know in the second half of 2019 if the proposal passes this test and Project
EnergyConnect is able to proceed to the next step. The project would be built in two phases.
Phase 1 involves connecting Robertstown in South Australia and Buronga in New South Wales
and on to Red Cliffs. Phase 2 would connect Buronga and Wagga Wagga in New South Wales.

Preliminary works

In parallel to the RIT-T process, the South Australia and New South Wales Governments
have provided support for ElectraNet and TransGrid to progress preliminary work
for Phase 1 of the Project. This will allow the interconnector to be delivered sooner
if it is approved by the AER. The preliminary work is focused on narrowing
the Phase 1 route corridor which is currently about 340 km long and 20 km wide.
This work includes environmental, social and engineering studies and engagement
to understand local community and stakeholder views and to seek their feedback.

What is an interconnector?

An electricity interconnector is a connection that allows power to flow between regions in the
National Energy Market, providing access to a larger number of electricity generators. Interconnectors are
common around the world, including here in Australia. Project EnergyConnect will involve the construction of
a new 330 kilovolt (kV) above-ground transmission line connecting South Australia and New South Wales,
with an added connection to north west Victoria.

Enabling the transition of
Australia's energy network
to a greater mix of
renewables

The broad route passes though renewable energy zones in South Australia,
New South Wales and Victoria. This means future renewable projects in these areas
will be able to connect to the grid and supply new energy into the network.

Forecast Benefits

If approved, Project EnergyConnect would deliver a range of direct benefits
for consumers in South Australia, New South Wales and Victoria including
lower power prices, improved energy security and increased economic activity.

Opportunities will also be created for regional communities through job
creation and local procurement during construction and in the longer
term as new energy projects come online.

Lower Prices

Energy Security

Increased Economic Activity

Connecting Robertstown in
South Australia and Wagga Wagga
in New South Wales with a
connection to north west Victoria

Approximate total length of 900km

Phase 1 - Connecting Robertstown and Buronga and

Phase 2 - Connecting Buronga and Wagga Wagga

on to Red Cliffs

Initial studies are being progressed to better
understand environmental, social and engineering
considerations, as well as stakeholder perspectives
for Phase 1 of the project.

Refining the Route

Discussion with landholders
to commence in 2019

When the route is narrowed enough to allow it,
discussions will commence with relevant landholders.
These discussions are expected to start in
the first half of 2019.

Opportunities to participate

There will be opportunities for the wider community to
provide feedback to the project in early 2019.
Sign up to project updates here.

Current engagement activities

Anticipated
Phase 1
Timelines

The next step of the Regulatory Investment Test for Transmission (RIT-T) involves a final ruling by the AER on whether the proposed interconnector has met the requirements of the National Electricity Rules and is able to proceed.

If the project is approved under the RIT-T process, the preliminary works program that has been commenced will enable the overall project delivery timeframe to be brought forward.

No construction works may begin on Project EnergyConnect until the relevant approvals have been received.

Construction commencing during 2020 is subject to gaining all necessary environmental and development approvals. We are working towards a 2022 completion date and continue to look for opportunities to deliver the project as early as possible.

Community and Stakeholder Engagement

The National Electricity Market
(NEM) operates across the eastern
and southern states of Australia,
extending from far north Queensland
to western South Australia

Energy
Generation

Transmission
Lines

Distribution
Lines

Energy
Use

Enabling future renewable energy projects to connect to the electricity grid

The NEM involves wholesale generation that is transported via high voltage transmission lines
from generators to large industrial energy users and to local electricity distributors, who deliver
it to homes and businesses.

Project EnergyConnect is
focused on delivering benefits
for customers, communities
and businesses

We are committed to open and transparent engagement with stakeholders and community members
across all phases of the project. Ongoing updates regarding how stakeholders and community
members can participate will be made available on the Project EnergyConnect website.

Project EnergyConnect will keep stakeholders and the community updated as engagement for the project commences. This will include opportunites for members of local communites, relevant landholders and other stakeholders to provide input that will be considered during development of the project.

Contact Project EnergyConnect

For SA and general enquiries,
contact ElectraNet
 Email: consultation@electranet.com.au
Phone: 1800 560 577

For NSW and Victoria enquiries,
contact TransGrid
 Email: community@transgrid.com.au
Phone: 1800 222 537

Sign up here for regular updates