Forty-five per cent of the metropolitan area is now serviced by underground power, 16 years after the policy was first enacted, according to Energy Minster Francis Logan.
Forty-five per cent of the metropolitan area is now serviced by underground power, 16 years after the policy was first enacted, according to Energy Minster Francis Logan.
The full text of a ministerial announcement is pasted below
Forty-five per cent of the metropolitan area is now serviced by underground power - a unique landmark achieved after more than 16 years.
The Minister announced the achievement today at the latest underground power project in Mt Lawley.
Mr Logan said Western Australia was leading the nation with its ambitious underground power project.
The Minister said the State Government was on track to achieve its 50 per cent target by 2010.
"The Carpenter Government is committed to delivering improved power supply systems to all Western Australians," he said.
"Connecting to underground power is a major benefit to property owners and occupiers who get nicer-looking, brighter and more evenly lit streets, and a safer, more reliable power supply.
"The removal of overhead powerlines also allows trees to grow to their natural height and shape and reduces the number of power interruptions caused by external forces, such as car accidents or falling debris."
The 45 per cent landmark includes new subdivisions and areas where powerlines have been retrospectively dug underground.
In 1991, the State Labor Government made it mandatory for all new housing developments and subdivisions to have underground electrical connections.
Five years later, the Underground Power Program was introduced to underground overhead powerlines retrospectively, with the costs shared between the State and local governments.
So far, more than 58,000 electric meters have been undergrounded in more than 28 completed residential projects, at a total cost of $171.5 million.
This year, work will begin on the next round of the program involving another 8,200 homes in Gosnells, Mt Pleasant, Palm Beach, Wilson, Withers, Balcatta and Greenwood. These projects will cost more than $60million and are expected to be completed by 2011.
"This program has not been without its challenges, but it is now the envy of other States," Mr Logan said.
"The partnership between the State Government, Western Power and local governments is unique in the world and it is a credit to all involved that the project has progressed so well."
