Two successful overhead to underground power transition projects in the City of South Perth would enable more Western Australians to benefit from underground power.
Energy Minister Bill Johnston was present at the last pole ceremony yesterday to commemorate the completion of Western Power’s State Underground Power Program. Also present were representatives from the City of South Perth and Western Power.
“The State Underground Power Program is a proven example of what can be achieved when there is a collaborative approach between State and local government. It’s great to see the City of South Perth’s enthusiasm for the program; the City will also benefit from the Retrospective Underground Power Project in two other South Perth locations,” Minister Johnston said.
The initiatives entailed the removal of 985 wooden poles, installing 667 LED streetlights, and constructing 35 kilometres of overhead cable, all of which enhanced the community’s safety, aesthetics, dependability, and environmental results.
“Conversion to underground power has many benefits, not only does it beautify the streets it reduces power outages during storms, lowers maintenance and operating costs, and improves public safety,” Minister Johnston added.
Two of the 17 projects approved for round six of the program—the Collier and Manning projects—are jointly sponsored by the Western Australia (WA) Government and the City of South Perth.
Western Power has identified 300 places around Perth with a high density of ageing distribution overhead assets that would benefit from underground power in the next 20 years.
Kardinya South and Shelley East are the next underground power projects by Western Power that will be finished.
Ninety-eight projects have been completed, improving the electrical supply to 94,500 households and businesses, covering over 60 per cent of the Perth region.
“Not only are there improved power supply benefits for residents, underground powering helps beautify the streets, with trees being able to grow to their full capacity helping to also increase property values,” South Perth MLA Geoff Baker said.
