Commission intention to approve HVDC upgrade

1 August 2008

Electricity Commission intention to approve HVDC upgrade

The Electricity Commission today gave notice that it intends to approve Transpower's $672 million proposal to replace the existing Pole 1 of the HVDC inter-island link. The HVDC grid upgrade proposal involves the development of a new pole that will provide a total link capacity between the South and North Islands of 1000 MW from 2012.

Transpower initially applied for $728 million but this was reduced after discussion and further analysis. Interested parties have until 14 August 2008 to request a public conference to provide a final opportunity to comment on the proposal. If a public conference is requested, it is likely to be held in the week beginning 22 September 2008.

A final decision on the proposal by the Electricity Commission is expected by 24 October 2008. Documents relating to the proposal including reasons for the decision are available on the Commission's website at: http://www.electricitycommission.govt.nz/opdev/transmis/hvdc/index.html# notice-of-intention-july

ENDS

© Scoop Media