KerangLink gets green light
Published on 09 August 2022
Gannawarra Shire Council has welcomed the Australian Energy Market Operator’s (AEMO’s) release of its Project Assessment Draft Report into KerangLink (also known as VNI West), which found this proposal would provide the best outcome for energy consumers.
The report states that the development of major transmission line infrastructure that would connect Victoria and New South Wales’ electricity network and passes through the Gannawarra Shire via Kerang was the recommended option.
“The recommendations in the Project Assessment Draft Report are a significant step forward for further development of renewable energy generation in the Gannawarra,” Economic Development Manager, Roger Griffiths said.
“The new transmission infrastructure will provide the capacity for significant local generation of solar, wind and battery that will provide more economic diversity with new jobs and investment.”
VNI West is one of five projects identified by AEMO as part of its 30-year roadmap for supplying reliable and affordable electricity, while also achieving the Federal Government’s goal of Australia achieving net zero emissions by 2050.
The proposed local works would involve the construction of a new high-capacity 500 kilovolt double-circuit overhead transmission line through the municipality, and the construction of a new electricity sub-station near Kerang.
“These two projects alone will create thousands of jobs, whilst developments that will be able to proceed once KerangLink is constructed will open up billions of dollars worth of investment in the Gannawarra and potential millions of dollars to our Council in future Payment in Lieu of Rates income,” Council Chief Executive Officer, Tom O’Reilly said.
“KerangLink paves the way for the Gannawarra to facilitate the creation of Australia’s largest renewal energy zone in the 21st century and be as transformational to the landscape of northern Victoria, as was the development of irrigation in the early 20th century.”
AEMO and TransGrid are undertaking community consultation regarding KerangLink throughout August, with information sessions occurring on Wednesday, 10 August at 1pm and Thursday, 25 August at 1pm. To register for these sessions, as well as how you can have your say, please visit www.aemo.com.au/VNI-West
“Council is pleased to have led the way in advocating for KerangLink, and it is important for residents to have their say,” Mayor Charlie Gillingham said.
“This proposal would not be at the stage it is now without the support and advocacy from our local, State and Federal government colleagues. These include Federal Member for Mallee, Anne Webster; State Minister for Energy, Lily D’Ambrosio; State Government departments, including the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions, and Regional Development Victoria; Mallee Regional Partnership; Murray River Group of Councils; and the Loddon Campaspe Group of Councils.”