Northern Bowen Basin

In order to meet the growing peak electricity demand in the Bowen Basin, Powerlink is proposing to reinforce its existing high voltage transmission network in the area.

To achieve this, Powerlink proposes to construct two new substations – one at Moorvale South and another at Peak Downs North – a new transmission line between Nebo, Moorvale South and Ergon Energy's proposed Broadlea Substation and a new transmission line between Moorvale South and Peak Downs North.

Powerlink is now seeking Ministerial ‘community infrastructure’ designation, which is a planning approval process under the Sustainable Planning Act 2009 that is a necessary step for the project to proceed, for Stage 1 of the project – Nebo to Broadlea.

As part of this process, Powerlink has written to all directly-affected landowners and other stakeholders advising of our intention to seek Ministerial designation. Public notices regarding the proposal to seek Ministerial designation have also appeared in local newspapers.

Submissions on the proposal for Ministerial designation for Stage 1 of the project will close on Wednesday 9 May 2012. Powerlink will then consider submissions and respond to each submission individually. A copy of each submission and response was provided to the Minister responsible for considering the designation application.

Powerlink will seek Ministerial designation for Stage 2 of the project – Moorvale South to Peak Downs North – in mid 2012.

Powerlink has also commenced the process of land resumption in accordance with the Acquisition of Land Act 1967. All landowners directly-affected by resumption will be entitled to claim compensation.

Detailed information about these processes and the stages of the project can be found in the latest project newsletter under the Newsletters & Notices tab.