Triple the power for Maryborough substation

Ergon Energy has awarded a construction contract for a major upgrade project that will almost triple the capacity of the Maryborough bulk supply substation by the end of next year.

Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said the $8.7 million project involved installing two new transformers in the substation on the Bruce Highway north of Maryborough.

The substation provides the bulk power supply to 40,000 customers across the Fraser Coast.

The contract to install the transformers was awarded to private construction firm, Tenix.

The first of the new transformers is being installed and is expected to be commissioned by the end of the year. The second transformer is scheduled for installation by late next year.

Member for Hervey Bay Andrew McNamara said the substation upgrade would be a big boost for the developing region.

“Our region is one of the fastest growing regions in Queensland and we need to keep pace with that growth. The new transformers will almost triple the existing capacity of the substation,” Mr McNamara said.

“The upgrade is part of an ongoing works program that Ergon Energy is carrying out to ensure the network continues to meet the needs of the region now, and in the future.

The installation of the new transformers also requires the reworking of the transformer bays at the substation and the installation of new circuit breakers and other protection equipment.

The upgrade to the Maryborough bulk supply substation follows the completion of the new $5.9 million Rocky Street distribution substation in 2004 and the new $9 million Pt Vernon distribution substation in Hervey Bay earlier this year.

Media Inquiries: Brooke Johnson (07) 3224 7332