What is an

interconnector?

Interconnectors are a key feature of the future energy landscape. They allow power to flow between different regions (i.e., between Tasmania to Victoria), including to enable the efficient transfer of electricity from renewable energy generation zones to where the electricity is needed. Interconnectors can increase the resilience of the National Electricity Market (NEM) and make energy more secure, affordable and sustainable for customers. Interconnectors are common around the world including in Australia. They play a critical role in supporting Australia’s transition to a clean energy future.

Why do we need it?

The National Electricity Market is transforming as coal-fired generation continues to retire and variable renewable generation, such as wind and solar, take its place. Large and small-scale solar and wind generators produce clean and low-cost power, but there can be shortages in supply when the wind is not blowing and/or when the sun is not shining. Hydroelectric generators and storage resources, such as pumped hydro energy storage, can support solar and wind generation by storing excess energy and then make it available to customers as required. Marinus Link and the supporting transmission developments in North West Tasmania will provide access to Tasmania’s cost-competitive renewable energy and storage resources.

What are the Market Benefits?

• In addition to providing significant energy market benefits, the project also presents a valuable opportunity to stimulate employment, jobs and investment in local communities.
• comprehensive cost-benefit and system modelling conducted for the project indicates that this project will create billions in economic growth, thousands of jobs, and be a source of skills development in Tasmania and regional Victoria.
• On its own, the project will provide a broader economic contribution to regional communities in Tasmania and Victoria estimated to be up to $2.9 billion, together with 2,800 jobs generated at peak construction.

about us

TasNetworks is the Tasmanian jurisdictional planner in the National Electricity Market (NEM) and provides transmission and distribution electricity and telecommunications network services that deliver power to more than 280,000 households, businesses and organisations in Tasmania.