Transgrid are to move ahead with Xstrata transmission project

Transgrid are to move ahead with animportant transmission relocation for Xstrata’s Mangoola Coal mining project. Environmental consultant, Umwelt, has completed a detailed Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Project, which received approval from the Minister of Planning and infrastructure in July 2012.

The Mangoola 500 kV Relocation Project will involve the relocation of an existing transmission line on Xstrata’s Mangoola Mine site and surrounding land. Relocating this section of line, which forms part of the Bayswater to Mount Piper Transmission Line, will allow for Mangoola Coal’s plan to modify the mine.

Mangoola Coal is the proponent for the modified mine, while TransGrid will be responsible for the relocation of the transmission line.

The Project will involve the construction of approximately 11 kilometres of new transmission line on Xstrata land, including 32 towers, which will replace the existing nine kilometre transmission line that bisects the mine site; and decommissioning of the existing transmission line and relinquishment of its easement following the completion of the new line.  Construction is expected to commence in March of this year.