Western Power is in the process of upgrading the existing Kwinana to South Fremantle 132kV transmission line.
The primary purpose of the upgrade is to provide a consistent and reliable power supply to the South Fremantle substation, including reliable power while repairs and maintenance work are carried out.
The project will upgrade the Kwinana to South Fremantle 132kV transmission line from split-phase to dual circuit, with the existing overhead earth wire to be replaced with an optical fibre ground wire (OPGW). The OPGW incorporates the functions of both an earth wire and communication fibres, which will connect the Kwinana Power Station with the South Fremantle substation, improving communications links.
This project occurs within two separate stages, overhead and underground construction.
The existing Kwinana to South Fremantle 132kV transmission line is a single circuit line. This configuration is limited in that during maintenance or repair work the entire line must be de-energised.
A dual circuit line will allow the switching of power from one circuit to another, enabling Western Power to provide a continuity of supply. In addition, the line services a large catchment area and this essential work will reduce the load on the southern terminal substation.
Will involve works along a section of line that has minimal direct impact on residential stakeholders. Most work will be undertaken within the Kwinana Power Station, Alcoa site, road reserve and median strips. This work will be carried out between October 2006 - December 2006.
Stage two works is scheduled to re-commence in April 2007.
During this stage modifications to existing tension and suspension towers will be made. As part of the modification process, the distance between insulators will need to be increased. An insulator is a non-conductive material used to insulate the conductor and stop the electrical current earthing where the conductor is strung to the pole. Insulators need to be kept at set distances and due to the upgrade the space between insulators will need to be increased by 1200mm.
To lessen the visual impact as a result of the upgrade, conductors that are on residential properties will have the space between them reduced by a 300mm, with 900mm additional conductor length to be located on the side of the tower furthest from residences.
No power outages are expected to occur as a result of this work. Western Power will make every effort to minimise disruption to residents and businesses while works are undertaken.
For more information, please contact Project Officer Simon Collins on 9326 6502.
Page update on 15 May 2007
