Woree Substation upgrade reinforces electricity supply to FNQ

The recent completion of the $15 million upgrade of the Woree Substation south of Cairns will help ensure a reliable supply of high voltage electricity continues to be maintained to Far North Queensland into the future, Minister for Mines and Energy Geoff Wilson said today.

Mr Wilson said work to install a new transformer at the substation, and more than double the capacity of an existing high voltage transmission line, started in late 2006.

“The project was completed ahead of schedule at the end of October,” Mr Wilson said.

“The new transformer which has been installed at the Woree Substation will convert electricity from Powerlink’s high capacity transmission network down to a lower voltage suitable for distribution via Ergon Energy’s network,” he said.

Member for Cairns Desley Boyle said the completion of Woree Substation upgrade project would ensure Powerlink’s high voltage network kept pace with the growing demand for electricity in Far North Queensland.

“Electricity demand in Far North Queensland has increased by almost four per cent a year over the past 10 years,” Ms Boyle said.

“And it shows no sign of slowing down.

“Powerlink is forecasting electricity demand to increase by 3.5% a year over the next 10 years due to increasing industrial development and population growth,” she said.

Powerlink Queensland Chief Operating Officer Simon Bartlett said the upgrade of the Woree Substation required detailed planning and execution, and showcased the focus and dedication of the Powerlink and Ergon Energy teams who worked on the project.

“This was a major project that Powerlink, Ergon Energy and our contractors had to implement and we thank the local community and neighbouring businesses for their patience during the completion of this work,” Mr Bartlett said.

Media inquiries: Brooke Johnson (07) 3224 7332

14 November 2007