Electricity distribution company Powercor has been granted a new transmission licence to connect large-scale solar PV, wind generation, and battery energy storage, in Victoria, Australia.
The licence, granted by the economic regulator Essential Services Commission, permits Powercor to develop new terminal station infrastructure within its current distribution footprint across western, central, and northern Victoria.
As revealed by the company yesterday (25 September), Powercor said this could include 220kV lines for customer-related projects to enable them to connect to the transmission network easily.
These projects may include large-scale solar and wind generation, battery energy storage, data centres, and commercial and industrial businesses. Additionally, Powercor will own, operate, and maintain any necessary upgrades to the transmission system.
Tim Rourke, CEO of Powercor, said the Essential Services Commission’s decision was a great outcome for Victorians and would significantly benefit renewable energy proponents and large commercial businesses.
“Our entry into the transmission market means more competition, lower prices and better service for customers,” Rourke said.
“Providing quick and easy power connections for major businesses and clean energy projects is critical as Victoria competes nationally and globally to attract investment and jobs. We’ve already received strong interest from major customers, showing that another provider in the market was needed.”
Victoria has witnessed a consistent increase in large-scale solar PV projects in recent months, supported by the ongoing development of six Renewable Energy Zones (REZs) around the state.
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