Copper network contracts signed

ENGINEERING and construction companies under Australian multinational CIMIC Group are set to build the game-changing $1.7bn Copperstring transmission project in North Queensland.

CIMIC announced yesterday that its UGL and CPB Contractors businesses had entered into a $7m Early Contractor Involvement contract with developer Custring Pty Ltd.

UGL and CPB Contractors are also the preferred contractors to deliver the project.

CIMIC Group executive chairman and CEO Juan Santamaria said the awarding of the delivery phase was subject to completing the Early Contractor Involvement contract and the achieving of approvals and financing.

“We are pleased to support the delivery of this vital transmission line and will look to maximise the economic benefits and employment opportunities that this project can bring to regional communities in North and northwest Queensland,” Mr Santamaria said.

The project involves the development of a transmission line between Townsville and Mount Isa, connecting the isolated northwest region with the national electricity grid.

A three-year construction period, expected to start later this year, would create 750 jobs.

The connection should deliver wholesale electricity prices 40 per cent cheaper than current rates to mining and industrial users, and spur regional wind and solar energy projects and, potentially, hydrogen production along the corridor.

The ECI contract involves scoping, designing, site investigations, pricing and finalising the Engineering, Procurement and Construction contract.

The delivery phase will include the design, construction and commissioning of four new substations, two substation extensions and 1100km of high line.

UGL managing director Doug Moss said they were delighted to be working with Custring to deliver power infrastructure that would support the growth of a globally significant resources region.

CPB Contractors managing director Jason Spears said they would leverage their experience in delivering nation building infrastructure to ensure the strategically important transmission line was completed in a safe and timely manner.

“In doing so, we’ll also create job and procurement opportunities for Queensland’s regional communities,” Mr Spears said. voltage transmission