A $67 million program of electricity works has begun in Queensland as COVID-19 restrictions ease, supporting more than 150 jobs.
Three projects are underway as part of the program, including replacing ageing primary plant and secondary systems equipment at the Nebo Substation, upgrades to the Calvale Substation and network reconfiguration and upgrades to the 150-kilometre Gin Gin to Woolooga transmission line.
Queensland Energy Minister Anthony Lynham said the state’s publicly-owned transmission operator Powerlink had fired up construction works across the Wide Bay and Central Queensland.
“Queensland has a plan for economic recovery with a $50 billion infrastructure guarantee,” he said.
“Critical infrastructure projects like these deliver local jobs as well as maintaining the reliable energy network that powers our state.”
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Lynham said recommencing the projects and supporting jobs is a critical part of Queensland’s COVID-19 recovery.
“The Nebo project will ensure this major hub in North Queensland’s electricity network continues to supply Mackay, nearby coal ports and the associated haulage network, and the Bowen Basin coal mining area,” he said.
“Works at Calvale will safeguard a reliable electricity supply to the Biloela, Moura and Blackwater areas and support mining and agricultural industries.
“And the Gin Gin to Woolooga line transfers power across the Wide Bay region, supplying Bundaberg, Hervey Bay, Maryborough and Gympie.”
Powerlink Chief Executive Paul Simshauser said Powerlink remained committed to adapting work practices to meet COVID-19 requirements, with project crews looking forward to returning to site.
“Powerlink’s back to work plan safeguards the health and safety of staff, contractors and local communities, while continuing to effectively maintain and strengthen the performance of the transmission network,” he said.
“A range of controls have been implemented to keep Powerlink project crews COVID-safe, including changes to work methods to observe social distancing, regular cleaning of common touch points, risk assessments for travel, and comprehensive management plans with contractors.”