Hansa Meyer Global Transport has made sure that two transformers and accessories for Transgrid’s $1.8 billion EnergyConnect interconnector arrived on time in Port Kembla, Australia.

The units were loaded in China, despite having to deal with two typhoons, and delivered on time to the port of unloading onboard AAL’s 19,000-dwt S-Class vessel the AAL Fremantle.

The main transformers will remain in storage at the port in Hansa Meyer Global Transport’s specially prepared oil bunds, while the accessories will stay in the company’s storage yard near the port until required at site. Both solutions are reflecting the most economical option for the customer in a challenging market environment.

Transgrid added that the delivery of the two transformers marks the first major electrical equipment for the project. The arrival of this first big electrical kit adds even more momentum to this once-in-a-generation project which will enable sharing of energy between NSW, Victoria and South Australia for the first time.

EnergyConnect includes a new 900km electricity transmission line, known as an interconnector, that will connect power grids across three Australian states, driving competition in the wholesale electricity market. The interconnector is being built between Wagga Wagga in New South Wales and Robertstown in South Australia, with a connection to Red Cliffs in Victoria.

Transgrid is partnering with ElectraNet to deliver EnergyConnect, with Transgrid building the NSW section.