Transend - Appendix 5 Renewal capital expenditure - Australian ...

1 BACKGROUND
0BInvestment Evaluation Summary
TNM-GS-809-0720
This wood H pole line was built in 1966 and commissioned in 1967 and comprises of 222 structures. The poles are
nearing the end of their useful life, normally expected to be around 45 years. Nineteen structures were replaced when the
Hampshire Substation was installed in 1994.Twelve structures were replaced in 2006 as a result of the poles being
condemned.
2 PROJECT OVERVIEW
This project involves replacing existing wood poles and crossarms on the 110kV Burnie - Waratah transmission line with
“Sureline” steel poles and new crossarms.
The number of structures requiring replacement will vary and is dependent on the ongoing 3 year pole inspection
program. The next pole inspection is planned for 2007 – 2008. Forecast replacements are based on replacement rates
advised by Aurora Energy.
The asset management strategy adopted here is outlined in the Transmission Line Support Structure Asset Management
Plan TNM-SY-808-0223. The strategy is to replace the twin wood pole structure with a new cost effective product, a
single parallel tube “Sureline” steel pole from BlueScope Steel.
3. INVESTMENT TIMING
Expenditure in 2010/11 and 2013/14, aligned with the 3 year inspection program.
4. INVESTMENT NEED
Once poles have been condemned Transend must replace these within 3 months to ensure appropriate pole strength
safety factors. If the poles are not replaced they would have to be removed altogether, making the transmission line
inoperable and reducing security of supply.
5. CUSTOMER CONSULTATION
Land owners are to be contacted prior to entry onto property.
6. BENEFITS
Undertaking the wood pole replacement program will provide the following benefits:
� continue to sustain a reliable supply by replacing condemned poles in a timely manner;
� reduced capital cost for use of steel structures relative to wooden structures;
� reduced operating expenditure, with 3 yearly inspection of wood poles no longer required;
� increased resistance to fires caused by bushfires or pole top fire events; and
� environmental advantages associated with use of steel rather than wood poles.
Project Number ND0966 3 of 4