Powerlink has published a Project Specification Consultation Report (PSCR) to address the risk of premature current transformer failures in northern, central and southern Queensland.
Current transformers are installed at substations to measure and monitor the current flowing through transmission lines. They are a crucial component of the protection system that ensures electrical faults are cleared within the designated times as specified in the National Electricity Rules (NER).
Powerlink’s network is experiencing some premature failures of a 275kV current transformer particular make and model (current transformer subset). These current transformers perform functions such as revenue metering, power system monitoring, telemetry, and protection system performance which are key to managing the network. Failures can also result in network and load interruptions as well as loss of containment of oil and sand.
Powerlink proposes a program of state-wide replacement of the subset of current transformers to address the network need. The PSCR indicates that design and construction works will commence in 2026, and commissioning will be completed by July 2031.
Submissions on the PSCR are due by 28 November 2025, and should be emailed to [email protected]. More details on how to make a submission are in the PSCR document.
In the context of engagement activities with customers and the general community, Powerlink has assessed this RIT-T project as ‘minor’ on the RIT-T stakeholder engagement matrix.
A copy of the PSCR is available below.