AusNet directed to advise landholders about low transmission lines

Electricity company AusNet Transmission has been directed to contact Victorian landholders with low transmission lines on their properties, to make them aware of safety risks.

Energy Safe Victoria issued a formal direction after identifying AusNet had not provided sufficient advice to landholders about the presence of low 220 kilovolt (kV) transmission lines and the need to take precautions when near them.  

Energy Safe said AusNet had advised it was working towards a technical solution to the issue, including raising the height of the lowest transmission lines. In addition, it would ensure that any new 220kV powerlines were installed higher than 7.5 metres above the ground, in line with the current Australian standard.

As the owner of low transmission lines, AusNet needs to ensure that landholders are aware of the risks and what activities can and can’t be carried out safely in their vicinity, including the operation of heavy machinery and farming equipment.  

Energy Safe CEO Leanne Hughson said AusNet has been directed to contact landholders near its 220 kV transmission lines that are less than 7.5 metres from the ground.

“Landowners and occupiers can coexist with powerlines, but safety has to be a priority and risks must be actively managed,” Ms Hughson said.

“We are monitoring AusNet to ensure it engages with landholders so they understand how to operate safely near low powerlines.”

Electricity can flow through equipment and other items that contact or come too close to powerlines, potentially causing serious or fatal injuries to the operator and others in the area.

The direction issued to AusNet applies to existing low transmission lines in a number of areas across the state. Anyone who is contacted by Ausnet is encouraged to engage with them to understand how to operate safely around transmission lines.

Energy Safe. Always.  

Media contact: Jonathan Granger M: 0400 948 934 I  media@energysafe.vic.gov.au