Koolkhan to Maclean network upgrade

Country Energy is proposing to upgrade the electricity supply in the lower Clarence Valley Region. The proposed upgrade covers the area between Koolkhan and Maclean electricity substations and will require construction of a new 66,000 volt powerline to ensure there is a secure and reliable power supply for the Region into the future.

The upgrade will ensure that the electricity network is capable of meeting customer requirements for at least the next 20 years and will contribute to the Region's sustainability.

why is the network upgrade needed?

The population in the lower Clarence Valley has grown in recent years creating increased demand for reliable electricity to support residential and business development. In addition, the lower Clarence Valley is presently supplied by a single 66,000 volt powerline.

As a result, Country Energy has determined that the electricity network in the lower Clarence Valley needs to be upgraded to ensure the long-term reliability and quality of supply. Benefits of the upgrade include:

• Improved reliability and capacity to meet projected electricity demand in a region marked for growth as major residential, employment and service centres.

community consultation

Country Energy recognises the importance of consulting with the community and ensuring all stakeholders have access to information about the proposed upgrade.

Country Energy is seeking input from the community along the preferred route corridor to help refine and determine the specific line route.

Consultation will be undertaken with stakeholders who may be directly impacted by the project. Key stakeholders will receive a letter and more detailed information about the project by early February 2008. See below for details on how to have your say during the consultation process.

• Newsletter One – January 2008

get involved and have your say

Clarence Consultants Pty Ltd has been engaged by Country Energy to manage this project including the community consultation. If you need more information or you would like to provide feedback by 31 March 2008 please:

• Keep up-to-date with the proposal by visiting www.countryenergy.com.au/upgrades
• Contact Clarence Consultants Pty Ltd,
  Koolkahn Maclean Project
  PO Box 1261
  Grafton NSW 2460
  Phone 02 6642 2837
  Email: koolmac@clarenceconsultants.com.au

Country Energy values community input into this important project and looks forward to your feedback and suggestions.