Transpower has submitted an investment proposal to the Electricity Commission to build a new double circuit 220-kV transmission line between Wairakei and Whakamaru, New Zealand, by 2013. The submission of the proposal completes the work that began earlier in the year as a response to over 1000 MW of geothermal generation being built or planned in the medium term in the Central North Island. The proposed line will help provide needed capacity for this new generation, and will replace the existing single circuit line that presently connects Wairakei to Whakamaru directly via Poihipi Road.

General Manager Grid Development Tim George said that as part of Transpower’s planning for the project it had worked closely with the local community to get their feedback on the options presented and to keep them informed at each major milestone.

“This process included letters, factsheets, meetings and more recently a ‘drop-in’ center at Taupo, and this early involvement with the community has helped develop an appropriate proposal that balances the needs of both the National Grid and the community.”

“We will continue to work with the local community as their feedback will be valuable - especially in the next stage of planning which will involve confirming the route for the transmission line, assuming the proposal is approved by the Electricity Commission,” George stated. A decision on the proposal is expected from the Electricity Commission early 2009.

All documentation, including the proposal and the different phases of engagement and consultation are now available from www.gridnewzealand.co.nz/wairakei-ring-publications.

This investment proposal is one of four planned to be submitted to the Electricity Commission. The others are:

• Replacement conductor on the Woodville–Mangamaire–Masterton A line,
• Bus security at Maungatapere, and
• New interconnecting transformer at Wilton.