Ergon Energy Network has kick-started a major project to boost the electricity network that powers the livelihoods and lifestyles of thousands of customers across the Douglas Shire.  

Civil works are underway at the Mossman substation site to pave the way for a multimillion-dollar overhaul.  

“We are building a substation for the future - with a new control building, transformer and other equipment - that will benefit generations to come,” Far North area manager Charlie Casa said.  

“The Mossman substation supplies more than 3300 homes and businesses, so it’s a key piece of community infrastructure and a cornerstone of growth and development that we’re making a significant investment in.” 

The Douglas Shire network upgrade also includes the installation of overhead fibre-optic cable on the electricity transmission network, establishing critical communication links between three substations at Mossman, Turkinje and Craiglie. These substations supply more than 30,000 customers.  

“This upgrade will help us improve fault response and reduce the impact of unplanned outages on our customers in these areas," Mr Casa explained.

“Our transmission lines crews who will be doing this specialised work on 132,000-volt powerlines have advised property owners that they’ll be in the area and at times they’ll be using helicopters. 

“Farmers can rest assured our crews will be working to minimise any disruption to their operations and they take biosecurity protocols very seriously."

Mount Molloy customers will also notice powerline works in progress this month as crews will be installing new conductors on the 22,000-volt distribution network.  

“The Douglas Shire network upgrade is a major project with a lot of moving parts, so we’ll be keeping our customers and communities updated with all the details whenever work is locked in," he said.

“Planned outages are sometimes necessary to give crews safe access to the electricity network and to help them to get the job done more efficiently.  

“We’ll always notify affected customers with the details by mail and they can register for free SMS or email outage notifications at www.ergon.com.au/selfservice."

The Douglas Shire network upgrade is scheduled for completion in early 2025.