MRGC Shocked at Electricity Report

The MRGC is quite shocked by AEMO’s recently published Consultation Report which shows a very different proposed route for Kerang Link (Victoria-NSW Interconnector) transmission line upgrade project. MRGC has made a strong submission in response to this report.

For years it has been assumed that the new line (which is required in order to keep the lights on in Victoria as coal fired power stations close) would traverse our region from north of Ballarat via Bendigo and on to Kerang into NSW north of Kerang.

Imagine our surprise and the surprise of farmers across the region when the rport proposed a route from Bulgana, via St Arnaud and Charlton, Boort and then crossing the river between Torrumbarry and Echuca.

Needless to say, MRGC has made strong representations to AEMO and the Victorian Energy Minister Hon. Lily D’Ambrosio, explaining why this route, and AEMO’s analysis is flawed.

If this new proposal gets up, then the Murray REZ will likely continue to have investment in renewables constrained as it will not add enough capacity in the transmission network to justify large scale projects.

MRGC will continue to advocate for the best possible outcome for Northern Victoria on this project.