Queensland offers support to restore South Australia electricity supplies

Published Thursday, 29 September, 2016 at 01:10 PM

Premier and Minister for the Arts
The Honourable Annastacia Palaszczuk

The Queensland Government-owned transmission company, Powerlink Queensland, has offered assistance to South Australia to restore its electricity supplies, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said.

Ms Palaszczuk said Powerlink had offered to assist ElectraNet with recovery efforts after storms severely damaged its electricity transmission network.

Powerlink, on behalf of the Queensland Government, owned a minority stake in ElectraNet until December 2012. 

“Powerlink is uniquely placed to assist ElectraNet,” the Premier said.

“Powerlink has contacted their colleagues at ElectraNet to let them know that Powerlink is here to help as required.”

Powerlink Queensland Chief Executive Merryn York said Powerlink was mobilising special temporary tower structures which can replace damaged towers in the short term and help restore electricity supply in the safest possible manner.

“Our expert design team can also provide rapid design solutions to help rebuild damaged infrastructure,” she said.

“Powerlink can also provide on-the-ground crews to travel to South Australia and assist with restoration efforts.

“Severe weather is still expected today, so we need to wait until ElectraNet can safely assess the full extent of damage to confirm exactly what other assistance will help with the restoration.”

n  Powerlink is a State Government Owned Corporation, which owns, develops, operates and maintains the high voltage electricity transmission network that extends 1700km from north of Cairns to the New South Wales border.  Find out more about Powerlink: www.powerlink.com.au/About Powerlink Queensland.

Media contact:

  • Premier’s office 3719 7000
  • Powerlink enquiries: 24-hour media line 3860 2654