OtagoNet to improve power reliability
CLYDEVALE can expect a more reliable electricity supply under plans discussed in Balclutha recently.
The $2 millionplus reinforcement and duplication of the Clydevale network ring was one of $8 million worth of infrastructure upgrade plans for the Clutha District presented to South Otago businesses by network supplier OtagoNet late last month.
The projects formed part of OtagoNet’s 10year asset management plan, worth about $100 million in total for rural east Otago, from Shag Pt to Chaslands.
Projects were driven both by antici pated increases in demand from PowerNet subsidiary OtagoNet’s 14,800 customers, and the need for increased reliability, PowerNet chief executive Jason Franklin said.
‘‘The Clydevale project provides a step increase in reliability for the customers in that region, by providing a second significant feed. This is particularly important for customers that require high levels of supply security — for example the Danone milk processing plant.’’
Other South Otago projects between now and 2025 would focus on automation, switchgear renewal, and further reliability improvements.
Through these investments, the company aimed to reduce the average number and duration of customer supply interruptions each year, projected for 201819 to be 2.78 per customer, totalling 253.3 minutes.
Subject to final board approval, a further $5.5 million was earmarked for a replacement depot and office at the PowerNet site in Charlotte St, Balclutha, Mr Franklin said.