THE STAKES ARE TOO HIGH TO RUSH THE TRANSMISSION TRANSITION

The stakes are too high, and the risk is too great for Australia to take the cheap and nasty path of rushed overhead transmission lines.  
 

That is why I welcome the newly established Legislative Council Select Committee inquiry on the feasibility of undergrounding the transmission infrastructure for renewable energy projects. 
 

This new inquiry will not stop the energy transition and nor does it seek to. 
 

What it will do is allow this parliament to independently examine further the benefits of underground versus overhead transmission infrastructure and allow for the genuinely consider bushfire risk and other weather-related events, ongoing environmental impacts, and community mental health and welfare. 

The previous inquiry heard overwhelming evidence from impacted regional landowners and communities across the state about the terrible impact it would have on their properties.  

The testimony of community members was supported by independent industry experts who provided informed and accurate information about the benefits and feasibility of undergrounding. 

Regrettably, the Standing Committee on State Development appeared to have made their decision to support the Government based largely on evidence from Transgrid that highlighted a conservative fear of cost increases and time delays. These are important but unfounded concerns and were addressed by evidence provided by the independent experts in the inquiry.  

Our parliament needs a more balanced consideration of the facts and I believe the Select Committee will provide this.