What is Project EnergyConnect? The Australian energy landscape is changing as we The interconnector would help lower energy prices transition to a greater mix of renewables. To support this and improve security and reliability in these states. transition, the national electricity grid needs to change To progress the proposed solution, ElectraNet to connect new energy generation sources to Australian is undergoing a Regulatory Investment Test for communities and businesses. Transmission (RIT-T). The RIT-T is a rigorous cost benefit At the same time, customers are demanding lower power analysis overseen by the Australian Energy Regulator bills and a more secure and reliable service. ElectraNet, (AER) and applies to all major transmission investments the owner and operator of the South Australian in the National Electricity Market (NEM). transmission network, has been investigating a solution The interconnector project is called Project to lower prices and help the network evolve. EnergyConnect. The proposed solution is a high-capacity interconnector between Robertstown, in South , and , in , with a connection line to Red Cliffs, in .

SOUTH AUSTRALIA NEW SOUTH WALES

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What is an interconnector? Who will deliver Project EnergyConnect? An electricity interconnector is a connection between If all approvals are secured, Project EnergyConnect will multiple transmission networks that allows power to flow be delivered through a partnership between ElectraNet between regions. Interconnectors are common around and TransGrid. the world including in Australia. The Australian Energy Market Operator, as the Victorian Project EnergyConnect will involve the construction of transmission planner, will also be involved in delivering a new 330 kilovolt (kV) above-ground transmission line the works associated with the connection to north-west connecting and New South Wales, with Victoria. an added connection to north-west Victoria. What is the Project EnergyConnect’s How much will the new line cost current status? and when will it be completed? As part of the RIT-T process, ElectraNet has released the Project EnergyConnect is estimated to cost about final report into the construction of a new interconnector $1.5 billion. Residential energy customers will contribute between SA and NSW. The AER will assess the Project about $9 annually in South Australia and $5 annually Assessment Conclusions Report (PACR) to determine if in New South Wales – costs which are outweighed the project has passed the RIT-T and rule on whether our considerably by the estimated savings on electricity bills. proposed solution can proceed. Given the savings and benefits will be shared as soon as In parallel to the RIT-T process, the South Australian and the interconnector is in place, ElectraNet and TransGrid New South Wales governments have provided support for are working closely with the South Australian and New ElectraNet and TransGrid to progress preliminary work South Wales governments to commence construction to narrow the route corridor between Robertstown and as soon as possible, subject to gaining all necessary Buronga. The preliminary work includes environmental, environmental and planning approvals. social and engineering studies and engagement to We are working towards a 2022 completion date and understand local community and stakeholder views and continue to look for opportunities to deliver the project to seek their feedback. as soon as possible. If the AER approves the proposal, Project EnergyConnect will undergo rigorous State and Commonwealth How can I get involved? government environment and planning assessments. Project EnergyConnect is focused on delivering benefits There will also be extensive community and stakeholder for customers, communities and businesses. ElectraNet engagement. and TransGrid are committed to open and transparent Construction will commence on Project EnergyConnect engagement with all stakeholders and community only after environmental and planning approvals have members across the project. been granted. Information for stakeholders and community members on the project and how to participate is available on the What are the benefits of Project EnergyConnect website: Project EnergyConnect? www.ProjectEnergyConnect.com.au If approved, Project EnergyConnect would deliver a range of benefits for customers in South Australia, New To obtain more information, be kept up to date with South Wales and Victoria including: project information and provide feedback contact us:

• Lower power prices In South Australia or general inquiries: • Improved energy security consultation@.com.au • Increased economic activity 1800 560 577 (free call) • Supporting the transition to a lower carbon emission energy system; and If you are in New South Wales: • Supporting a greater mix of renewable energy in community@.com.au the national energy market. 1800 222 537 (free call) Typical residential electricity bills are estimated to reduce annually by about $66 in South Australia and $30 in NSW. For small businesses, bills are estimated to reduce annually by $132 in South Australia and $71 in NSW. These savings are estimated to start flowing after the project’s completion. Independent modelling also forecasts Project EnergyConnect should deliver broader economic benefits including regional construction jobs during the life of the project in South Australia and New South Wales.