Powerlink has recently published a Project Assessment Conclusions Report (PACR) to address the secondary systems condition risks at Abermain Substation.
Located in south-east Queensland, Abermain Substation is a major injection point into the Energex distribution network. Planning studies have confirmed there is an enduring need for the substation to maintain the supply of electricity in the Ipswich, Lockrose, Gatton and south western parts of Brisbane.
Most secondary systems at the Abermain Substation are reaching the end of their technical service life, and are no longer supported by the manufacturer, with few spares available.
In September 2018 Powerlink published a Project Specification Consultation Report (PSCR) identifying the proposed preferred option to address the risks and claiming exemption from producing a Project Assessment Draft Report as allowed for under NER Clause 5.16.4(z1). There were no submissions received in response to the PSCR which closed in December 2018. As a result, no additional credible options that could deliver a material market benefit have been identified and the outcomes of the economic analysis contained in the PACR remain unchanged from those published in the PSCR.
The PACR recommends replacing all ageing and obsolete secondary systems using a modular prefabricated building with new secondary systems installed, by June 2021. The estimated capital cost is $6.76 million in 2018/19 prices. Powerlink is the proponent of this network project.
In accordance with the requirements of the Rules, a summary of the PACR has been made available on AEMO’s website. A copy of the PACR can be obtained from the Powerlink Website on the RIT-T Consultations page or by emailing networkassessments@powerlink.com.au.
Any enquiries in the first instance should be directed to:
Roger Smith
Manager Network and Alternate Solutions
Powerlink Queensland
PO Box 1193
VIRGINIA, QLD 4014
Tel: (+617) 3860 2328