In summary, the key changes in the new proposed project scope are:
- The urgent Sydenham Terminal Station Rebuild will be completed separately.
- The 220kV portion of the transmission line is proposed to be uprated to 500kV.
- The new terminal station north of Ballarat would no longer be required.
- A new 500kV switchyard and associated equipment near the existing Bulgana Terminal Station would be required.
AusNet will continue to engage with landholders on the proposed route for the Western Renewables Link while we prepare the project’s Environment Effects Statement.
The Sydenham Terminal Station Rebuild, to urgently replace and upgrade the existing Sydenham Terminal Station as required for network reliability, will be managed as a separate project and will be built before the Western Renewables Link through a separate planning approval pathway. The Western Renewables Link will still connect into the terminal station at Sydenham, and these connection works will be included in the Western Renewables Link Environment Effects Statement.
The Minister’s decision and the new Environment Effects Statement referral for the Western Renewables Link is available on the Department of Transport and Planning website, at www.planning.vic.gov.au/environmental-assessments/browse-projects/western-renewables-link.
The Western Renewables Link Environment Effects Statement is expected to be available for public viewing in 2024. Written submissions about the project’s Environment Effects Statement can be made by the community during this period. Further information about how to make a submission on the Western Renewables Link Environment Effects Statement is available on the Planning Panels website: www.planningpanels.vic.gov.au/guides-and-resources/how-to-make-a-submission.
About the project
The Western Renewables Link is a proposed electricity transmission line that will carry renewable energy from western Victoria to homes and businesses across the state and into the National Electricity Market.
The project is critical infrastructure required to unlock the renewable energy potential of western Victoria as a key Renewable Energy Zone and will help deliver clean and affordable energy to all Victorians.
Project updates
To register for regular updates about the project, please visit www.westernrenewableslink.com.au. If you have any questions, please call 1300 360 795 or email info@westernrenewableslink.com.au.