Powerlink has published a Project Assessment Draft Report (PADR) to address the risk of current transformer failures in northern, central and southern Queensland.
Current transformers are installed at substations to measure and monitor the current flowing through transmission lines. They are a crucial component of the protection system that ensures electrical faults are cleared within the designated times as specified in the National Electricity Rules (NER).
Powerlinkâs network is experiencing some premature failures of a 275kV current transformer particular make and model (current transformer subset). These current transformers perform functions such as revenue metering, power system monitoring, telemetry, and protection system performance which are key to managing the network. Failures can also result in network and load interruptions as well as loss of containment of oil and sand.
Powerlink proposes a program of state-wide replacement by 2029 of the subset of current transformers to address the network need. The cost of the replacement program is $122.5 million.
In accordance with the requirements of the NER, a summary of the PADR is made available on the AEMO website. A copy of the PADR can be obtained from the Powerlink website on the RIT-T Consultations page or by emailing [email protected].
Submissions on the PADR are due by 8 May 2026. Details on how to make a submission are in the summary and full PADR documents.
Any enquiries in the first instance should be directed to:
Grant Haydon
Manager Network and Alternate Solutions
Powerlink Queensland
PO Box 1193
VIRGINIA QLD 4014
Telephone: (07) 3860 2111