EnergyConnect boosts regional jobs and business

Dear Editor,

Australia’s largest electricity grid project is not just accelerating the nation’s energy transformation – it’s investing millions of dollars in regional communities just like yours. Transgrid’s $1.8 billion EnergyConnect project is currently awarding local procurement packages along its alignment in NSW from Wentworth to Wagga Wagga following the start of construction. The 700km NSW section of the interconnector, from the South Australian border to Wagga Wagga, is being built by Transgrid’s construction partner SecureEnergy JV, providing a significant economic and employment boost for cities and towns along its alignment.

So far $8 million has been committed to businesses in the local communities. This includes accommodation, car hire, plant and equipment hire, personal protective equipment and new vehicles equipped with an in-vehicle monitoring system and global positioning system tracking.

The Hillis Motor Group and Southland Supply Group in Wagga Wagga are just two of the local businesses to benefit.

The new interconnector will enable the sharing of energy between NSW, South Australia and Victoria for the first time. This critical project will allow integration of renewables for a clean energy future, reduce the nation’s carbon emissions and help drive down the cost of wholesale electricity. In fact, NSW energy customers are expected to save $180 million a year.

EnergyConnect is also expected to generate up to 1,500 new jobs and provide $4 billion in economic benefits for NSW, providing a much-needed shot in the arm for many regional communities.

Transgrid also recently announced $2 million to support the education of 100 engineering students at Charles Sturt University to help address Australia’s infrastructure skills shortage.

Spending in local communities, buying locally, creating jobs and developing skills are key priorities for Transgrid as part of our commitment to supporting regional business.

Brett Redman

Transgrid CEO