The State Government has today marked the completion of Western Power’s 100th underground power project during a last pole ceremony in Eden Hill.
Since the first overhead to underground power project in 1996, more than 100,000 properties in WA’s main electricity network have been connected to the grid by underground power.
The Network Renewal Undergrounding Program Pilot (NRUPP) – in partnership with local governments – prioritises locations for undergrounding where mature network assets are ready for replacement.
Western Power’s latest NRUPP project has delivered reliable, safe, and secure underground power to more than 1,800 homes and businesses in the suburb of Eden Hill by removing 670 poles, installing 365 streetlights, and laying 40 kilometres of cabling within the Town of Bassendean.
Underground power reduces power outages during extreme weather events and lowers operating and maintenance costs while providing aesthetic benefits for the community.
For more information visit https://www.westernpower.com.au/community/work-in-your-area/underground-power/
As stated by Energy Minister Bill Johnston:
“Over 65 per cent of the Perth metropolitan area now benefits from underground power, and that number will only grow with the roll out of the new Targeted Underground Power Program recently announced.
“The environment also benefits from undergrounding due to cheaper life-cycle expenses and improved opportunities for emerging technologies to pave the way for innovation and advanced adaptability to future power demand.
“Western Power is also replacing traditional streetlights with new energy saving LED lighting and ensuring the network is more resilient to extreme weather events.”
As stated by Bassendean MLA Dave Kelly:
“I’m really pleased to see this project completed and welcome the improved amenity it will bring to Eden Hill.
“Underground power enhances the liveability of our suburbs and offers a great opportunity to plant more street trees.”
