The publication of this Project Assessment Conclusions Report (PACR) marks the completion of the Regulatory Investment Test for Transmission (RIT-T), which evaluates options to maintain safe and reliable 250V direct current (DC) supply systems at nine terminal stations to meet AusNet’s regulatory obligations and community expectations. This PACR is the final stage of the RIT-T process, which has been conducted in accordance with clause 5.16 of the National Electricity Rules (NER) and section 4.4 of the RIT-T Application Guidelines.
250V DC supply systems provide critical power supply for protection, control and SCADA/telemetry at terminal stations, which are required for the safe and reliable operation of the electricity network. Failure of duplicated 250V DC systems will result in the loss of these functions at a terminal station, which may lead to loss of supply to customers and personnel injury.
The deteriorated condition and advanced age of the existing duplicated 250V DC systems at the following nine terminal stations poses increasing risk of DC system failure:
- Ballarat Terminal Station (BATS)
- East Rowville Terminal Station (ERTS)
- Malvern Terminal Station (MTS)
- Tyabb Terminal Station (TBTS)
- Altona Terminal Station (ATS)
- Geelong Terminal Station (GTS)
- Keilor Terminal Station (KTS)
- Ringwood Terminal Station (RWTS)
- Wemen Terminal Station (WETS)
No submissions were received in response to the PSCR and there have been no changes since the publication of the PSCR. Accordingly, this PACR concludes that Option 1 remains the preferred option because it delivers the greatest net economic benefit.
Option 1 entails replacing the deteriorated 250V DC supply systems and essential fireproofing upgrades to the battery rooms at these nine terminal stations by 2031. The estimated capital cost of this option is $14.8 million. The project will commence in 2027 and is anticipated to be completed by 2031.
AusNet welcomes any questions on this project or written feedback on the PACR, which can be provided to [email protected]. In the subject field, please reference “Maintaining safe and reliable DC systems”.