Port Kembla has welcomed two large transformers, weighing more than 118 tonnes each – the first major electrical equipment to arrive in the country to help power the nation’s largest transmission project that will support the expansion of renewable energy.
The transformers, offloaded from the AAL Fremantle, will be used as part of the $1.8 billion EnergyConnect interconnector project – a 700-kilometre-long transmission line that will extend from Wagga Wagga in the state’s Riverina region to the South Australian border.
NSW Ports’ Commercial and Business Development General Manager Campbell Mason said the handling of the transformers demonstrated Port Kembla’s capacity to support Australia’s diverse trades and meet the growing needs of businesses and industries.
“Port Kembla is one of Australia’s key trade gateways and is perfectly positioned to help deliver key sustainable infrastructure projects, like the EnergyConnect interconnector, which are pivotal to securing Australia’s renewable energy future,” he said.
“This significant transmission line will help connect more solar and wind generation into the power grid, reducing carbon emissions and supporting the country’s clean energy transition.”
NSW Ports is committed to supporting the transition towards decarbonisation in maritime supply chains. NSW Ports’ new Sustainability Strategy builds on the company’s achievements to ensure it remains highly resilient, responsive and responsible in its operations.
“Our strategy outlines multiple sustainability objectives that we will deliver in the coming years, including our commitment to being a champion of decarbonisation,” Mr Mason said.
“We all have an important role to play in actively working toward a better future for the environment, the economy and our society. We’re proud to play a part in supporting valuable energy projects such as the EnergyConnect interconnector that will help create a cleaner, greener future.”
Transgrid Executive General Manager of Major Projects Gordon Taylor said the electricity transmission project is the largest undertaken by Transgrid.
“The arrival of this first big electrical kit adds even more momentum to this once-in-a-generation project, which will enable sharing of energy between NSW, Victoria and South Australia for the first time,” he said.
“We are delighted with the arrival of the transformers for this critical energy project, which will enable the integration of renewable generation and help the Federal Government achieve its climate change targets.”
The transformers will be transported from Port Kembla to the project construction site in south-west NSW at Buronga, near Mildura. Learn more about the project by clicking here.
Port Kembla contributes $2.9 billion to the NSW economy each year and supports 10,000 jobs, with 99 per cent of the port’s workforce living in the Illawarra. The port is well connected to Greater Sydney and regional NSW.
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Brooke.Eggleton@nswports.com.au | 0419 684 953