Transpower consults on options for Lower Waitaki

Media release
9 November 2010
Map of regional lines attached

Transpower consults on options for reinforcing regional electricity supply to the Lower Waitaki Valley

Transpower, in conjunction with local lines companies Network Waitaki and Alpine Energy, has released a shortlist of possible options to reinforce regional electricity supply in the Lower Waitaki Valley (between Waitaki, Timaru and Oamaru).

The shortlisted options follow two years of work involving Network Waitaki, Alpine Energy and key groups (irrigation and dairy companies, and local councils) to determine the future electricity needs of the region, along with the possible options.

An increase in the use of irrigation along with dairying conversions, together with new industry (like the possible Holcim cement plant), is pushing regional electricity demand up (forecasts suggest demand could double over the next 10 years).

The shortlisted options include upgrades to the existing 110 kV regional supply lines between Waitaki, Glenavy, Oamaru and Timaru and the possibility of a new 110 kV regional supply line between Transpower’s substations at Livingstone (near Danseys Pass) and Oamaru (near Weston).

General Manager Grid Development, John Clarke, said that Transpower, along with Network Waitaki and Alpine Energy recognised the importance of engaging early with those potentially affected by the options to upgrade the regional electricity supply. Seeking feedback now will ensure that an appropriate solution for the region is submitted to the Commerce Commission for approval.

“Our solution must meet the Commerce Commission’s Grid Investment Test – a type of national cost benefit assessment that is used to select the most economic option. This week we have released a consultation pack to the local community, detailing the options and the advantages and disadvantages of each. Any feedback we receive from the community will help us decide the most appropriate option to go forward with."

Consultation on the shortlist of options runs until 3 December 2010. Consultation documents and further information on the project can be found at: http://www.gridnewzealand.co.nz/lower-waitaki-reliability-publications

Following consultation, Transpower expects to finalise an option in early 2011, and submit a proposal to the Commerce Commission in March 2011.

ENDS

Full release with map: 0911_MR_WaitakiValley.pdf

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