Proposal to reinforce supply to N Akld, Northland

Media release
25 September 2007

Transpower submits investment proposal to reinforce supply to North Auckland and Northland

Transpower has submitted an investment proposal to the Electricity Commission to reinforce supply to North Auckland and Northland.

The proposed $521 million project involves installing 37kms of 220 kV underground cable from Pakuranga to Penrose and then to Albany. It also allows for obtaining easements, consents and other preparatory work for a second cable between Penrose and Hobson Street in later years.

General Manager Grid Investment Tim George said that the demand for electricity in the North Auckland and Northland areas continues to grow and could increase by as much as 21% over the next six years.

“This proposal provides the best solution to ensure a reliable electricity supply for power users in this area, well into the future.”

Lodgement of the North Auckland and Northland investment proposal follows a robust consultation process that began in May 2006. A public workshop in July this year was used to facilitate feedback on the short-listed options from interested parties.

“There has been a very positive response on the short-list of options from those who participated in the consultation phase for this project.

“This project goes through a densely populated urban area, and when we looked at all options, the underground cable option was $41 million cheaper (on a net present value basis) than any alternative option including further overhead lines. It was also the preferred option of the public workshops.”

This Investment Proposal is part of Transpower’s Grid Upgrade Plan, which also includes an up to date comprehensive plan for asset management and operation of the grid and a list of Transpower’s investment contracts with its customers. The Grid Upgrade Plan is being provided to the Electricity Commission by instalments over the next six or so months and will include proposals for new investments for the South Island, the HVDC and some smaller investment projects.

ENDS

http://www.gridnewzealand.co.nz/n239,98.html

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