Bouldercombe to Larcom Creek Reinforcement Project

Overview

Powerlink is planning to reinforce the high voltage transmission connection between our existing Bouldercombe and Larcom Creek substations.

The new transmission line will reinforce electricity supply to the Gladstone region, and increase network capacity and reliability to support:

the electrification of local industry
additional energy that will be produced by new renewable energy generators 
eventual retirement of aging coal-fired generators.

Existing easements will be used where possible to lessen impacts of this reinforcement project.

This project is made up of four sections (A, B, C and D). In sections A and B one new 275kV transmission line is required to be developed.

In sections C and D one new 275kV line is required to be developed, as well as exploring options for additional easement width to accommodate future transmission lines.

The Bouldercombe to Larcom Creek Transmission Line Reinforcement Project will be delivered as part of the Gladstone Project.

Gladstone West Substation

Powerlink acquired land for a new substation and is in the early stages of planning.

For planning and environmental approval purposes, this substation is part of the Bouldercombe to Larcom Creek Transmission Line Reinforcement Project.

Status

Powerlink has been undertaking early desktop and field studies (such as ecological studies) to inform the project’s feasibility and approval pathway. The findings of these initial investigations have been summarised in two corridor reports, which are now available for public comment.

A Corridor Validation Report has been prepared to investigate the 80km portion of the corridor, between Bouldercombe Substation and the proposed Gladstone West Substation. The report assesses the suitability of using the existing vacant easement to accommodate a new double-circuit 275kV transmission line.
A Draft Corridor Selection Report has been prepared to investigate the project between the proposed Gladstone West Substation and Larcom Creek Substation. The report identifies a recommended corridor for the proposed transmission line as well as investigates options for easement widening and a new easement location.

To read these reports in full, or to provide your feedback on their findings, please visit the project’s community hub.

Powerlink is working with the relevant Federal and State government departments regarding the appropriate planning and environmental approvals pathway for this project.

We will continue engaging with landholders, Traditional Owners, the wider community and other stakeholders as planning progresses.