On 28 March 2025, ElectraNet submitted its contingent project application to us, seeking an increase to its revenue to fund early works on the Mid North South Australia Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) Expansion Stage 1a contingent project in accordance with clause 6A.8.2 of the National Electricity Rules (NER). This project will involve the construction of new 275 kV and 132 kV transmission lines to connect renewable generation to Adelaide and to meet industrial load growth in the Upper Spencer Gulf region of South Australia. This stage 1a early works contingent project application relates to initial early works activities, including costs for stakeholder engagement, land use planning and acquisition, project development and procurement activities.
We invite stakeholders to make submissions on ElectraNet's Stage 1a early works contingent project application by 2 May 2025. Interested stakeholders should send submissions to contingentprojects
aer [dot] gov [dot] au (contingentprojects[at]aer[dot]gov[dot]au).
Background
This project was identified by the Australian Energy Market Operator as an actionable project in its 2024 Integrated System Plan. ElectraNet is eligible to submit this early works contingent project application as the actionable ISP project trigger event under clause 5.16A.5(e) of the NER is satisfied.
Our role is to review the prudency and efficiency of the proposed costs within the Stage 1a early works application to ensure consumers pay no more than necessary. We have 40 business days from receiving the application or responses to information requests to make our decision. We expect to make a decision on the application in the coming months.