Project Assessment Conclusions Report – Summary
Regulatory Investment Test – Transmission – April 2026
The publication of this Project Assessment Conclusions Report (PACR) marks the completion of the Regulatory Investment Test for Transmission (RIT-T), which evaluates options to address the safety risks associated with low spans across AusNet’s transmission network, with a focus on high risk spans. The PACR is the final stage of the RIT-T process, which has been conducted in accordance with clause 5.16 of the National Electricity Rules (NER) and section 4.4 of the RIT-T Application Guidelines.
AusNet undertook a three step risk assessment to identify low spans across its transmission network. It identified 114 high risk low spans in its transmission network that need to be addressed. These high risk low spans are to be addressed in two priority tranches (Priority 1 and 2 tranches) based on clearance, safety risk and land use.
This RIT-T encompasses the Tranche 1 rectification for Priority 1 high risk low spans. AusNet has proposed to address the remaining Priority 2 high risk low span sites in the 2027-32 regulatory period, which do not form part of this RIT-T.
The 16 Priority 1 high risk 220kV low spans in Tranche 1 have a combination of very low ground clearance and high risk land use, where areas beneath the overhead conductors are traversable by land owners or the public.
The PACR explored the following two credible options to minimise the safety risks posed by these 16 Priority 1 low spans as far as practicable in accordance with AusNet’s regulatory obligations and community safety expectations:
- Option 1: Modifications to existing assets to raise conductors
- Option 2: Installation of new taller poles to raise conductors.
Both options increase the number of spans raised from 16 to 28 spans as the additional 12 spans are adjacent spans within the same strain to strain section. Some of these additional spans are low spans. It is more efficient to remediate these spans together in this project given their location.
The preferred option is to install new taller poles (Option 2). The estimated capital cost of the preferred option is $34.8 million (real 2025 dollars). Construction will commence in 2026 with project completion expected by 30 June 2029.
AusNet welcomes any questions on this project or feedback on the PACR, which can be provided to [email protected]. In the subject field, please reference “Tranche 1 low spans”.