Release Date: 19 December 2006
A meeting to discuss issues relating to the Muja to Wellstead line to supply electricity to the proposed Grange resources mine yesterday heard that Western Power must continue its assessment of line route options near Gnowangerup to meet Grange’s timeframe.
The meeting attended by Grange Resources, Western Power, Great Southern Development Commission, WALGA, Beacon Energy, Community Representatives and other regional members was convened by Greens MP Paul Llewellyn to look at alternatives to the line route and to Grange’s assessment of power options.
Grange Resources revealed it had made extensive assessments of its power supply options before deciding it required a connection to the electricity grid.
Western Power Major Projects Coordinator Mr Ian Buchanan said the meeting provided a valuable opportunity to discuss the complex issues surrounding energy delivery.
"In the new regulated market Western Power’s roles include planning for expected growth in the region and separately assessing options to meet the needs of proposals from major customers such as Grange.
"In relation to planning for the natural growth of the Great Southern, Western Power will be building another 132kV line between Kojonup and Albany to be completed in the summer of 2011/12," he said.
Grange needs a 220kV line by mid 2009.
Line route assessments and approval processes take at least two to three years.
"Yesterday's meeting heard that there was no viable alternative solutions that would meet Grange’s proposed timeframe.
"Western Power will continue to work with the community to assess the social, environmental and economic implications of the current line route options," Mr Buchanan said.
If you have any questions regarding this media release please email us: media@westernpower.com.au
Page update on 19 December 2006
