May 19, 2020
Work on a $5 million upgrade to power transmission towers has begun between Tarong and Wivenhoe Dam.
Energy Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said the works would replace more than 2200 insulator strings on 245 transmission towers along more than 100km of transmission line between Mt England, near Wivenhoe Dam, and Tarong.
“This essential insulator replacement work supports 13 jobs and ensures the transmission line will continue to operate safely and reliably for its remaining 45-year technical service life,” Dr Lynham said.
“Powerlink has adapted the project’s roll-out in response to COVID-19, adjusting project schedules to minimise travel for specialised maintenance crews based in the south-east corner.”
Powerlink acting CEO Kevin Kehl said Powerlink was committed to continuing its works program during this challenging time, ensuring the transmission network remained safe and secure.
“We will also be using innovative work practices to replace the ageing insulators on the Mt England to Tarong transmission line while the 275kV line remains fully energised, or ‘live’,” Mr Kehl said.
“Insulators are located near the top of transmission towers, supporting the transmission line wires while separating them electrically from the tower.
“Undertaking this specialised maintenance work while the high voltage equipment remains energised minimises potential impacts on our customers by avoiding the need for planned outages on our network.
“Powerlink will work closely with landholders and other stakeholders to minimise any potential impacts associated with the works, which will be delivered on each transmission tower as safely and quickly as possible.”
