The gates have been thrown open for 3,000 MW of new renewable generation and storage on Australia’s east coast.
A key section of the $3.3 billion HumeLink transmission project is now open to connection enquiries, providing a pathway for projects to access the National Electricity Market.
HumeLink, a new 500 kV high-voltage line linking Wagga Wagga, Bannaby and Maragle, has achieved “considered project” status under the National Electricity Rules, enabling proponents to lodge formal applications to connect.
The $3.3 billion project includes 365 km of new transmission lines and new or upgraded infrastructure at four substations.
“HumeLink is a once in a generation investment in Australia’s energy capability, increasing the amount of renewable energy that can be delivered to the National Electricity Market, and helping move towards a net zero future,” said Transgrid Acting Executive General Manager of Network Jason Krstanoski.
“Once the project is connected to the network, it will unlock the Snowy Hydro Scheme expansion project, Snowy 2.0, which will provide an additional 2,200 megawatts of on-demand energy into the grid – enough energy storage to power three million homes for a week.”
The new line will also open up direct connection opportunities for large-scale solar, wind, battery and pumped-hydro projects, improving supply resilience as coal-fired stations close.
Transgrid estimates HumeLink will deliver more than $1 billion in net benefits to consumers through increased access to lower-cost renewable power.
Construction works are due to ramp up within weeks. Transgrid says it is offering industry briefings and free pre-connection engagements to help fast-track connections and minimise delays.
“We are working hard to better support our current and future customers to make the connection process as seamless as possible… I encourage proponents of new renewable energy generators and energy storage facilities to start discussions with us to enable direct connection to HumeLink to support electricity generation growth and reliability as demand grows and coal-fired power stations retire,” Krstanoski said.