Members of the community are being encouraged to provide feedback on a preferred route for a new transmission line critical to delivering cleaner, cheaper and more reliable electricity from NSW’s first Renewable Energy Zone in the state’s central west.
Mount Piper to Wallerawang
Community has a say on preferred route for Mount Piper to Wallerawang Transmission Line Upgrade Project
15 January 2024
Transgrid has released the Preferred Route Report for the proposed Mount Piper to Wallerawang Transmission Line Upgrade Project for public consultation.
Executive General Manager of Delivery Craig Stallan said: “Transgrid is delivering the critical transmission infrastructure identified by the Commonwealth and NSW governments to realise their clean energy vision.
“The Mount Piper to Wallerawang Transmission Line Upgrade Project will strengthen and reinforce the grid in the State’s Central Tablelands, supporting the delivery of 3,000MW of new generation from the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone to consumers.
“Following extensive community and stakeholder consultation, we have identified a preferred route with the lowest possible impact on landowners and the environment, utilising an existing transmission line corridor.
“Transgrid encourages residents, landowners, community organisations, First Nations people, local councils and other key stakeholders to have their say as we continue to plan this critical transmission infrastructure to support our clean energy future.”
The project will see a new 8km, 330kV transmission line built between existing substations at Mount Piper and Wallerawang utilising an existing transmission line corridor part of which borders land between Centennial Coal and the Gardens of Stone State Conservation Area.
Transgrid followed a rigorous route selection process that analysed technical, environmental, social and economic factors. This critical project will be subject to an environmental impact assessment. It will also support local businesses and jobs during construction.
“We recognise the vital role that landowners and the community play in the planning and delivery of this project and encourage everyone to share their views and local knowledge to help us shape the best possible solution,” Mr Stallan said.
Community information events will be held in Wallerawang and Lithgow in March for local residents to ask questions of the project team and provide their feedback.
For further information and updates about the project, contact Transgrid via email community@transgrid.com.au or call 1800 222 537.
The Preferred Route Report is available here.
Mount Piper to Wallerawang Transmission Line Upgrade Project – preferred route option
Media enquiries:
Michelle Stone 0438 293 917