Route
Wimmera Renewable Energy Solutions (WiRES) is a 100 km transmission line that spans the Wimmera from near Warracknabeal to Bulgana, connecting significant renewable energy projects and large-scale battery energy storage with the national electricity grid.
Visual Impact
WiRES will look different from most traditional transmission projects.
It will consist of single monopoles carrying twin 330 kV cables (conductors) that allow renewable energy to flow from the point of generation to a connection at Bulgana, and from there on to homes and businesses across Victoria.
WiRES will not use traditional lattice towers which are typically 60-80 metres tall. In contrast, monopoles are much shorter – around 35-45 metres high – and will greatly reduce the project’s impact on the landscape.
FAQs
How was the route selected?
WiRES has undertaken a robust route assessment process characterised by:
- Significant engagement with industry experts
- An independent route assessment report by an expert consultant
- Additional studies into the cost and feasibility of underground construction and visual impact to ensure the facts are known
- Developing its own multi criteria analysis (MCA) framework aligned to industry guidelines
- Undertaking deliberate work to better site potential infrastructure to co-locate with property boundaries in the study area, demonstrating commitment to minimising impacts to agribusiness in region.
The WiRES route assessment recommends a route option that is kept well away from townships. Combined with the adoption of monopoles with lower height and bulk than alternative lattice towers, this will help reduce the project’s visual impact on the landscape.
The route aims to minimise agribusiness impacts through boundary co-location.
Is the route locked in? Is there any flexibility on route pathway/specifics?
We are engaging with landholders to understand their willingness to partner with WiRES.
WiRES will not draw broad study corridors that create uncertainty or publish our recommended route without first talking to the people that might be affected. We offer a fresh approach to transmission development that puts community at the heart of our plans.
WiRES will engage directly with landholders along the most technically feasible route arising from the route assessment process first. We are committed to genuine early engagement, and there should be no surprises.
The route will change. As we engage with the people of the Wimmera we will learn new things, adapting the route to optimise WiRES for the region. The route assessment so far is our starting point, not a conclusion. Only through consultation can WiRES unlock the energy potential of the Wimmera, realising the benefits to the region and the environment.