The completion of South Australia’s component of Project EnergyConnect marks a major milestone in the state’s energy transformation. Covering 206km from Robertstown to the South Australia-New South Wales border, this high-voltage energy pathway strengthens South Australia’s position as a leader in clean and reliable energy.
Project EnergyConnect, the largest energy pathway project ever delivered by ElectraNet, plays an important role in unlocking South Australia’s renewable energy potential. The new 330kV substation at Bundey, for instance, is the state’s first and enables greater energy flow and allows South Australia to export more of its abundant wind and solar power to New South Wales.
ElectraNet CEO Simon Emms highlighted the project’s broad benefits, including a stronger grid, greater energy security, and lower prices for consumers.
“Once in full operation the new interconnector is expected to deliver bill savings of $127 for a typical South Australian residential power customer and between $6,000 and $18,000 for business customers.”
“Project EnergyConnect is already contributing to South Australia’s clean energy future through new renewable energy developments in excess of 2GW, including wind, solar and batteries that are now proposing to connect to the grid.”
These benefits extend beyond energy. The project supported a peak workforce of 250 people, with approximately 600,000 hours of labour invested in its successful delivery. It is also set to create 250 ongoing jobs in the state. Additionally, more than $45 million in contracts were awarded to South Australian businesses, assisting regional economies through services such as logistics, accommodation, and equipment hire.
The new Bundey substation, constructed in the Riverland as part of the project, is home to South Australia’s largest electricity transformers, and ensures stable and efficient power transfer. Other key features of the South Australian section of the interconnector include the Special Protection Scheme, a reduced environmental footprint, and taller towers designed to minimise vegetation clearing.
By working closely with landholders from early planning through to construction, ElectraNet has ensured a collaborative approach that sets a new benchmark for large-scale infrastructure projects. Project EnergyConnect is not only advancing South Australia’s clean energy transition but also delivering lasting economic and environmental benefits for the state and beyond.
