Nation-critical transmission project HumeLink secures NSW planning approval

Transgrid has welcomed the NSW Government’s planning approval for the nation-critical transmission project HumeLink.

CEO Brett Redman said “We welcome the determination by the NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces. This a significant milestone and we now await the Commonwealth environmental approval before Transgrid’s Board considers its Final Investment Decision (FID).

“HumeLink represents a key component of the National Electricity Market (NEM) which supplies energy to millions of Australians. By reinforcing the southern grid, the project will connect at Wagga Wagga with EnergyConnect and form the energy superhighway needed to help bring cheaper, cleaner renewable energy online from south-west NSW.

“This reshaping of the NEM will benefit electricity consumers by providing a secure, sustainable and more affordable supply, which is expected to put downward pressure on bills in the long term.

The project will also provide 1800 jobs (including 1600 construction roles) and supplier opportunities at the regional and national level.

The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) approved funding of $4.57 billion for the HumeLink project in August 2024.

The NSW planning approval follows a detailed assessment process, including an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), Submissions Report and Amendment Report, which included a Biodiversity Development Assessment Report recognised as one of the largest ever completed in NSW.

HumeLink will now be assessed by the Commonwealth Government’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, with a determination expected next month.

Late last year, Transgrid awarded $2.9 billion in construction contracts to Acciona and GenusPlus Group Ltd (JV) for the HumeLink East package and to UGL CPB Contractors (JV) for the HumeLink West package.

Pending Commonwealth approval and FID, detailed design, investigations, procurement and project mobilisation can commence this year, with main construction works expected to commence in early 2025.

For more information about the project, go to https://transgrid.com.au/humelink
Landowners are encouraged to contact their dedicated Community Engagement Place Manager or email humelink@transgrid.com.au

HumeLink project map

HUMELINK FAST FACTS

• 1,800 jobs, including 1600 construction jobs
• Local workforce and industry participation focus
• Indigenous procurement and participation target of 2.5-5%*
• Securing energy reliability for more than three million households and businesses
  *Proportion of contract value

Transgrid media contact:
Michelle Stone 0438 293 917