A $1.3 million package of work aimed at strengthening network resilience and enhancing power reliability for homes and business in the Wickepin area is underway.
This essential work will involve the replacement of 45 poles and 3.6 kilometres of powerlines as well as upgrading streetlights, insulators and crossarms.
Executive Manager of Asset Operations Zane Christmas said the upgrades will enhance the resilience of the network in Wickepin and help to reduce the likelihood and length of unplanned outages.
“We’re upgrading the infrastructure in Wickepin to help strengthen the local network against environmental impacts such as major storms and bushfires,” he said.
“We’re upgrading sections of powerline to covered conductor which helps to reduce bushfire risk and minimises the impact of vegetation and wildlife coming into contact with the network.
“We’re also replacing insulators, helping to reduce the risk of pole top fires and upgrading safety protection devices which reduces the duration of unplanned outages for the community.”
While we always work to avoid any impact on the community, some planned power outages will be necessary to complete these upgrades safely.
Impacted residents and businesses will be notified a minimum of three business days but typically up to 10 business days prior so that they can prepare.
“We understand this can be inconvenient in the short term and we thank the community for their patience as we work to improve the network in their area, bringing long term benefits,” Mr Christmas said.
The package of work is scheduled to be completed by the later this year.