Preparations in full swing for Tropical Cyclone Ita

Essential electricity equipment is being moved into position to deal with any possible impacts of Tropical Cyclone Ita and ensure the quickest possible response.

Energy and Water Supply Minister Mark McArdle said Ergon Energy was deploying eight high capacity generator units to Cooktown today, while one of the company’s emergency restoration mobile substations – known as “Pegasus” units – would also be moved to the area.

“Pegasus units were successfully used to help restoration efforts in the wake of Cyclone Oswald last year,” Mr McArdle said.

“The technology was designed and built by Ergon Energy and has proven invaluable in disaster response.

“We promised at the election to deliver better planning and our preparations for this cyclone show we remain committed to that.

“If power goes out, people can rest assured we have the best people on the job to restore supply.

“Ergon Energy crews are experienced and will get the power on as quickly and safely as they can.”

At least 390 Ergon field staff are available across the possible impact zones of TC Ita and a further 180 specialist substation operations staff are also available from Cairns and Townsville locations.

Ergon’s dedicated mobile generation team is also based in Cairns.

Mr McArdle said the disaster response teams had now secured access to at least five helicopters and a fixed-wing aircraft to get staff into remote areas as soon as possible, particularly if remote community networks were damaged and road access was a problem.

Ergon has reminded residents in the path of TC Ita to finalise preparations, clean up around homes and businesses to avoid airborne debris flying into powerlines and stay well away from any fallen powerlines.

Residents can get all necessary disaster preparation tips and other safety information on Ergon Energy’s website at:

https://www.ergon.com.au/outages--and--disruptions/storms-and-disasters/storm-and-cyclone-safety

[ENDS] 10 April 2014

Media Contact: Phil Hind 0437 334 183