GenusPlus Group Ltd (ASX: GNP), a national provider of essential power and communications infrastructure, has secured a two-part contract with TasNetworks for the North West Transmission Developments (NWTD) Stage 1 project in Tasmania.
Project Overview
The NWTD Stage 1 project is part of the broader Project Marinus, which, alongside the Marinus Link, aims to enhance Australia’s energy mix by increasing the supply of low-emission renewable energy. The project supports Tasmania’s transition to a low-carbon future, facilitating the connection of Marinus Link and accommodating growing demand from renewable energy production in the region.
The estimated total project cost for NWTD Stage 1 is approximately $950 million and involves the following key components:
- Upgrade and augmentation of the 220kV transmission network in North-West Tasmania.
- Construction of dual circuit transmission lines between Palmerston, Sheffield, Heybridge, and Burnie.
- Removal of existing 220kV single circuit transmission lines between Palmerston to Sheffield and Sheffield to Burnie.
- Substation augmentations at Palmerston, Sheffield, and Burnie.
- Construction of a new Switching Station at Heybridge to integrate the Marinus Link into the Tasmanian grid.
Contract Phases
- Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) Phase:
- Genus will begin with the ECI Phase under a Limited Notice to Proceed valued at $42 million.
- This phase includes engineering and design work, as well as surveys. Early works agreements for procurement of long-lead time materials will also follow.
- Construction Phase (expected to begin in Q2 2026):
- Subject to conditions such as a Final Investment Decision, Planning and Environmental approvals, and the Australian Energy Regulator’s (AER) revenue determination.
- The Construction Phase is scheduled to be completed by 2029.
CEO Comments
- David Riches, Genus Managing Director, expressed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the opportunity to contribute to Tasmania’s renewable energy future and work with TasNetworks on a project of national importance. He emphasized the long-term potential of this partnership and the benefits it will bring to Tasmania and the broader energy market.
- Seán McGoldrick, CEO of TasNetworks, congratulated Genus for being appointed as the Head Contractor. He noted that the appointment follows an extensive procurement process ensuring high standards of fairness and probity. McGoldrick also emphasized the positive impacts the project will have on local communities, businesses, and Tasmanian employment, with a commitment to engaging Tasmanian businesses throughout the project.
Project Highlights:
- Genus awarded the contract for Stage 1 of TasNetworks’ North West Transmission Developments.
- Early Contractor Involvement phase valued at $42 million, covering engineering, design, and surveys.
- Works include new 220kV transmission lines, substation augmentations, and construction of the Heybridge Switching Station.
This contract represents a significant step forward in Tasmania’s energy infrastructure and marks a key collaboration between Genus and TasNetworks to support the state’s renewable energy future.
