Energex ready for action

Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said last night’s spectacular lightning show across South East Queensland signalled the start of the summer storm season.

“It brought home to us that it’s not a matter of if summer storms strike, but when.

And when they do, Energex and Ergon Energy will be ready for action,” Mr Wilson said.

The Minister said Energex crews worked through the early evening and into the night to restore power to homes and businesses during the thunderstorms and strong winds.

“More than 35,000 homes and businesses lost power as a result of the storms that swept across the south east with wind gusts up to 90 kilometres an hour. By 6.30 this morning, all but seven homes had their power back on,” Mr Wilson said.

More than10,000 lightning strikes were recorded as the storms passed over a region that includes more than 35,000 kilometres of overhead power lines.

“I thank Energex and Ergon for their efforts last night. It’s not a nine to five job, it can be hazardous and for that we owe them our thanks,” Mr Wilson said.

Last night Energex crews were assisted by a new Australian-first mobile satellite navigation system that has been rolled out across south east Queensland.

Minister Wilson said the $22 million system would help crews locate and restore power outages faster and more safely.

“Every one of Energex’s 730 rapid response vehicles is now equipped with the new satellite laptop system.

“The system was first trialled on the Gold Coast and following its success more than 2,000 Energex emergency crews and support staff across the south-east now have access to the new technology.

“The moment after Energex receives notice of a power outage, a case is generated at the call centre, evaluated, and immediately despatched to rapid response crews in the field.

“The system identifies the closest crew to the job and provides the quickest route to get there.

“I was delighted to join Premier Anna Bligh in unveiling the new technology at Energex’s newest depot at Kelvin Grove last week.

“Together with a record investment of $555 million on capital works and maintenance to boost electricity capacity, the new satellite system will help Energex to tackle whatever nature throws at the electricity network this summer.

“Forecasters are predicting a stronger storm season than last year,” Mr Wilson said.

“Energex is running a series of community safety initiatives that will build on successful messages from previous years.

“Over the past few months, the organisation has conducted helicopter patrols to monitor vegetation near overhead lines and spends around $1 million a week on vegetation management.

“Energex is ready for action and I urge residents to take precautions too.

“Secure loose items around the yard, trim overhead tree branches that are away from power lines and keep a torch and battery-operated radio handy,” he said.

Residents concerned about branches near power lines, should contact 131253 and to report a power outage, call 136262.

“They’re simple steps, but ones that could prove life-saving when severe storms strike,” Mr Wilson said.

Media Inquiries: Ellen McIntyre 3225 1819