Installation has begun on the new Bundey substation in South Australia’s Riverland which, when completed, will be home to the state’s largest electricity transformers.
South Australian electricity transmission operator ElectraNet recently took delivery of the three new transformers which will play a critical role in enabling the flow of power across the new energy highway between South Australia and New South Wales, Project Energy Connect.
“They are big pieces of equipment, with each one weighing more than 250 tonnes when operational. That’s the average weight of about 125 electric vehicles,” said Rainer Korte, ElectraNet COO.
ElectraNet, along with New South Wales electricity transmission operator Transgrid, are partnering on Project EnergyConnect, which will allow electricity to be shared between the three states and allow for the integration of a greater mix of renewables.
It will run for 900 kilometres between Robertstown in South Australia and Wagga Wagga in New South Wales, and will boast a capacity of 800MW.
“More than 50% of construction on the South Australian component of Project EnergyConnect is now complete and we remain on track for construction to be completed by the end of 2023,” said Korte. “Release of initial power transfer is planned for mid-2024.
“The new interconnector will unlock renewable energy development, strengthen the grid and deliver savings for customers.”
