Meeting about installation of underground power

4/9/94

Representatives from local government, the community and State Government departments will meet next month to discuss the installation of underground power in Western Australia.

Energy Minister Colin Barnett will host a forum on October 21 as a major step toward fulfilling the Coalition Government's aim to progressively underground power in WA's established residential areas.

Mr Barnett said the orderly conversion of above ground power supplies to underground systems in older suburbs would be a large and costly task requiring coordination between property owners, local authorities and the State Government.

"At present, only about 15 per cent of the Perth metropolitan area is serviced by underground power," he said. 

"SECWA estimates that the cost of converting commercial and residential properties connected to overhead power in the Perth metropolitan area alone would be around $2.4 billion."

Mr Barnett said the forum would provide an opportunity for people who have been or would be involved in the provision of underground power to present their views on the issue.

Key speakers from SECWA, the WA Municipal Association, the City of Subiaco and the Urban Development Institute of Australia (WA) would share their various experiences with the undergrounding of power.

Mr Barnett would also detail possible scenarios for introducing a comprehensive undergrounding program.

Following the forum, a discussion paper would be released to allow the wider community to comment on the issue.

Mr Barnett said the expansion of the State's underground power supply was a major part of the Government's long-term energy policy.

"Currently, most of WA's underground power services are concentrated in Perth's new residential areas," he said.

"With the exception of the work being done in the City of Subiaco, the undergrounding of power in older suburbs has been negligible.  Consequently, knowledge of the advantages and disadvantages of conversion to an underground system is limited.

"The forum will bring together people with experience in the provision of underground power in both new and established residential areas so that all interested parties can balance the benefits of undergrounding power, such as improved aesthetics and reduced power disruptions, against the immense costs involved."

Mr Barnett said possible cost-sharing arrangements and suggestions on reducing the cost of installing underground power in established areas would also be discussed.

"The forum will provide the framework on which the Government can establish a sensible, long-term strategy for provision of underground power in this State," he said.

Media contact:  Amanda O'Brien 222 9595 / 222 9699