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Planning for permanent towers begins now that primary supply is secured for NSW Far West Communities

01 November 2024

Transgrid has commenced planning for the construction of the permanent high-voltage transmission towers for Broken Hill and NSW Far West communities, following restoration overnight of the primary power supply for the region.

At 8:41pm (ACDT) yesterday, the high voltage transmission line linking Broken Hill to the grid was safely re-energised.

Head of Transgrid’s Far West Operations Response Sam Pickering said “With primary power supply reconnected, this marks the end of the emergency response phase and the beginning of the recovery phase.”

“We will continue to provide updates to the community on progress. To the community of Broken Hill who have not only shown great patience while we worked to restore the primary power supply but welcomed our emergency response teams, thank you.

“We also offer our thanks to the NSW Government, including Minister Sharpe and her team, and Minister Moriarty, local MP Roy Butler, Mayor Tom Kennedy and Mark Summers from Essential Energy.

Mr Pickering said the temporary towers are a durable solution that do not require an urgent replacement however planning is already underway on a long-term solution for the region.

Transgrid will continue to work with the NSW Government, Councils, Essential Energy and community organisations during this recovery phase.

“I also want to thank the entire Transgrid emergency response team and the team operating the backup generator, who have helped maintain backup power to Broken Hill since the extreme weather event.”

Media enquiries: Michelle Stone 0438 293 917