AEMO roadmap confirms urgent need for major transmission projects

CEO Brett Redman said “We are getting on with the delivery of the key projects needed to realise the Federal Government’s vision for a clean energy future and the Draft 2024 Integrated System Plan (ISP) clearly demonstrates why we need to accelerate our efforts to achieve this transition.

“Delivering EnergyConnect, HumeLink and VNI West, which are critical components of the new roadmap, is essential if the National Electricity Market is to meet the energy needs of millions of Australians.

“The delivery of these projects will not only secure supply but will also provide access to cleaner, cheaper renewable energy for consumers.

“While we are delivering these projects on behalf of Government, we are cognisant of the need to ensure that landowners, communities and energy consumers achieve the best possible balance of outcomes.”

The Draft 2024 ISP has identified that there is a clear need for urgent delivery of all actionable transmission projects. This includes Transgrid’s major projects EnergyConnect, HumeLink and VNI West which remain on the optimal development path for the transition.

AEMO CEO Daniel Westerman said modelling had found “Delivering the transmission projects identified in this plan is expected to avoid $17 billion in additional costs to consumers if those projects were not delivered.”

Mr Redman said: “Transgrid shares the bold ambition of our communities and governments to drive down energy costs and deliver a clean, sustainable and reliable energy future.

“Over the next decade, Transgrid anticipates investing more than $14 billion in NSW to build 2,500km of essential transmission infrastructure to connect renewable generation to the grid, so that Australian families and businesses have access to cheaper, cleaner, more reliable energy. 

“We need to build the energy superhighways that will help disperse clean energy from where it is generated. to the homes, businesses and industries where it is needed.”

AEMO has invited written submissions before 16 February, 2024 to enable a final 2024 ISP by 30 June 2024. For more information go to: https://aemo.com.au/consultations/current-and-closed-consultations/draft-2024-isp-consultation

To find out more about Transgrid’s critical role in enabling the clean energy transition visit: https://www.transgrid.com.au/about-us/network/network-planning/system-security-roadmap

Transgrid media contact:

Michelle Stone 0438 293 917