Two successful overhead to underground power transition projects in the City of South Perth will allow more Western Australians to benefit from underground power.
To mark the completion of Western Power's State Underground Power Program, Energy Minister Bill Johnston yesterday attended a last pole ceremony with representatives from the City of South Perth and State-owned utility to mark the completion of Western Power's State Underground Power Program.
The projects involved the removal of 985 wooden poles, 35 kilometres of overhead cable, and the installation of 667 LED streetlights providing improved safety, aesthetics, reliability, and environmental outcomes for the community.
The Collier and Manning projects - jointly funded by the WA Government and City of South Perth - are two of 17 approved as part of round six of the program.
Western Power has identified 300 areas with a high density of ageing distribution overhead assets across Perth that will benefit from underground power in the next 20 years.
The next Western Power underground power projects to be completed include Kardinya South and Shelley East.
More than 60 per cent of the Perth area now has underground power, with 98 projects now completed providing improved electricity supply to 94,500 homes and businesses.
For more information, visit https://www.westernpower.com.au/community/work-in-your-area/underground-power
As stated by Energy Minister Bill Johnston:
"The State Underground Power Program is a proven example of what can be achieved when there is a collaborative approach between State and local governments.
"It's great to see the City of South Perth's enthusiasm for the program; the City will also benefit from the Retrospective Underground Power Project in two other South Perth locations.
"Conversion to underground power has many benefits, not only does it beautify the streets it reduces power outages during storms, lowers maintenance and operating costs, and improves public safety."
As stated by South Perth MLA Geoff Baker:
"This is an exciting announcement for the City of South Perth community.
"Not only are there improved power supply benefits for residents, underground powering helps beautify the streets, with trees being able to grow to their full capacity helping to also increase property values."
