A $3 million package of works to improve power reliability and the safety of the network recently got underway in the Shire of Nannup.
Stage one of the planned works began on 7 December, with the second stage to be completed by mid-February 2024, and the third scheduled to be finalised by June 2024.
Western Power Executive Manager of Asset Operations Zane Christmas said the upgrading of network assets aimed to improve network resilience and reliability against major weather events and maintain a high level of network safety.
“We’re committed to improving power reliability for regional communities like those in Nannup, and that’s reflected in this infrastructure investment,” Mr Christmas said.
The work by Western Power crews includes replacing one Ring Main Unit (RMU), about 280 poles and 35km of high voltage lines, with the majority of work to be carried out on the Nannup feeder line from Yornup to East Nannup.
“We’ve worked with the community and stakeholders, including the Shire of Nannup prior to commencing this work,” he said.
During the first stage, one RMU and 30 poles are being replaced between Yornup and Nannup.
Stage two of the works include the replacement of about 250 poles on the feeder line between Yornup and East Nannup. A significant amount of the work will be done under the glove and barrier method, which involves working on live lines, reducing the amount of outages.
Residents and businesses impacted by planned outages needed to facilitate this work have or will be notified by Western Power a minimum of three business days prior (but typically up to 10 business days).
“We understand planned works can cause some short-term inconvenience, but we expect these upgrades to bring long-term improvements to power supply to the town,” he said.
“Our crews always work as safely and efficiently as possible to minimise any interruptions.”