TasNetworks' North West Transmission Developments (NWTD)
Project Updates
Next Step (Pending) Full Construction Phase to commence upon TasNetworks issuing a formal Notice to Proceed, contingent on all planning and environmental approvals being satisfied.
April 2026 Federal environmental approval granted under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act, enabling the project to proceed to full construction subject to final conditions.
March 2026 Tasmanian Planning Commission approved the Palmerston–Hampshire section (Stage 1), including a requirement to replace 25 lattice towers with steel monopoles in key locations such as Burnie and Stowport to reduce visual impact.
December 2025 GenusPlus mobilised to site for Stage 1 works following earlier approvals and preparatory activities.
Under the Limited Notice to Proceed (LNTP):
- Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) works completed (~$42 million)
- Early Works Agreements (EWA) initiated (~$80 million), including procurement of long-lead equipment and early mobilisation
October 2025 the permit application for Stage 1 of the North West Transmission Developments (NWTD) project was on public exhibition.
Background
The North West Transmission Developments is about upgrading the power lines in Tasmania’s north west so more electricity can move around, more reliably by strengthening and modernising the system, so new wind and hydro energy can plug in and flow across Tasmania, and eventually to the mainland via Marinus Link
It also means fewer outages, a more stable power supply for local communities, and better support for future energy projects, jobs, and investment in the region.
Stage 1 is about building and upgrading key power lines and substations, It includes new and upgraded lines from Palmerston (near Cressy) to Sheffield, and from Sheffield to Burnie, with a connection through to Heybridge.
This work is a key part of Tasmania’s plan to produce more renewable energy by 2040, making it easier for new wind and hydro projects to connect and supply power across the state and beyond.
The project will also create opportunities for local businesses, contractors, and workers during construction and ongoing maintenance, supporting jobs and investment in the region.
Local contractors, suppliers, and service providers are encouraged to register their interest to support construction, logistics, and ongoing maintenance opportunities., the project represents a significant investment in the region’s energy future and a boost for local employment and industry participation.
Construction for Stage 1 is due to commence in 2026
To learn more about the NWTD project, please visit the TasNetworks website: North-West-Transmission-Developments/
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