About the project
This major project was undertaken to ensure the provision of adequate transmission capacity in the north-west of Tasmania to meet the anticipated increase in demand for electricity over the next 15 years. The work involved the replacement of copper conductors with aluminium conductors between Port Latta and Smithton to increase the operating temperatures of the line from 49 degrees C to 65 degrees C. The operating design temperatures of existing aluminium conductors on the two circuits between Burnie and Port Latta were also increased. The work, which was carried out at a cost of $20 million, involved close cooperation with Roaring 40s, the owner of the Woolnorth Wind Farm, to align with its generation program.
The benefits
The work has significantly increased the carrying capacity of the transmission system in the north-west. Power flows of up to 65 MW are now possible during summer, improving the reliability and security of the electricity supply to the area.
Completion date
The work was completed in 2008.