Powerlink and Ergon Energy have published a Project Assessment Draft Report (PADR) to address the risks arising from the condition of key transmission network assets currently providing electricity services to Kamerunga, Cairns and the northern beaches area.
Kamerunga Substation, established in 1976, is a major injection point into the Ergon Energy distribution network. The operation of a 22kV distribution network around Kamerunga, Cairns and northern beaches is critical and necessary for the continued supply of electricity into this area.
The primary plant, transformers and secondary systems at Kamerunga Substation are nearing the end of their technical service lives with identified condition and obsolescence issues. The substation is also susceptible to major flooding events which could result in damage to equipment leading to loss of supply.
The Woree to Kamerunga 132kV transmission line was first established in 1963. The line operates in an aggressive tropical environment and is nearing the end of its technical service life with the majority of structures exhibiting signs of degradation.
Powerlink has developed two credible network options to address the Kamerunga Substation and Woree to Kamerunga transmission line condition risks and compliance obligations.
- Option 1 – Rebuild of transmission line with Overhead/Underground Alignment and Greenfield Air Insulated Switchgear (AIS) (new 22kV switchboard) at Kamerunga Substation.
- Option 2 – Rebuild of transmission line with Underground Alignment and Greenfield AIS (new 22kV switchboard) at Kamerunga Substation
The indicative capital cost of the preferred option (Option 1) is $292.4 million in 2025/26 prices.
Submissions on the PADR are due by the close of business Friday, 8 May 2026.
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 or by emailing [email protected].
Any enquiries in the first instance should be directed to:
Manager Network and Alternate Solutions
Powerlink Queensland
PO Box 1193
VIRGINIA, QLD 4014
Tel: (+617) 3860 2111