The Western Australian (WA) Government marked the completion of Western Power’s 100th underground power project during the last pole ceremony in Eden Hill.
Over 100,000 properties in WA’s leading electricity network have been underground powered since the first overhead to subterranean power installation in 1996.
In collaboration with local governments, the Network Renewal Undergrounding Program Pilot (NRUPP) prioritises undergrounding locations where mature network assets are ready for replacement.
Energy Minister Bill Johnston said over 65 per cent of the Perth metropolitan area currently has underground power, and that number will only expand with the implementation of the recently announced Targeted Underground Power Program.
“The environment also benefits from undergrounding due to cheaper life-cycle expenses and improved opportunities for emerging technologies to pave the way for innovation and advanced adaptability to future power demand,” Minister Johnston stated.
In addition, Johnston added that Western Power is replacing traditional streetlights with new energy-saving LED lighting, making the network more resilient to extreme weather events.
Western Power’s most recent NRUPP project in the Town of Bassendean provided reliable, safe, and secure underground power to over 1,800 homes and businesses in the Eden Hill suburb by eliminating 670 poles, installing 365 streetlights, and laying 40 kilometres of cabling.
Underground power decreases power outages during harsh weather occurrences, lowers operating and maintenance expenses, and boosts the community’s aesthetics.
“I’m really pleased to see this project completed and welcome the improved amenity it will bring to Eden Hill,” Bassendean MLA Dave Kelly said.
Kelly added that underground power improves the quality of life in our suburbs and provides an excellent opportunity to grow additional street trees.
 Government marked the completion of Western Power’s 100th underground power project during the last pole ceremony in Eden Hill.){kind=link}