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In his letter (Eumundi Green, 25 January 2008), Mr Jardine, CE, Powerlink states that the reason the grid capacity has to be expanded “is driven by the ever increasing demand for electricity by consumers”. There are three points which immediately spring to mind. First is the assumption that electricity demand will be “ever increasing”. The approach outlined by Mr Jardine appears to ignore the potential to reduce or shift the timing of demand in the future. What future demand management measures and targets have Powerlink included in arriving at their demand projections and are these still valid assessments?

Secondly, there are two ways to meet increasing demand; Mr Jardine’s chosen method of building more infrastructure to supply the power, or increasing the efficiency of electricity use. What evidence can Mr Jardine provide to the community that both of these options have been fully investigated before determining that the current project is the least-cost option? Can Mr Jardine also clarify for the community the actual increase in capacity that Powerlink is proposing this project will provide over its lifetime?

Thirdly, the assumption is that what has happened in the past will continue indefinitely into the future. Mr Jardine lists what has happened over the last 40 years to electricity demand. Is this the main factor in deriving the demand forecasts? Forecasts are about an uncertain future. The future of the electricity industry has never been more uncertain with recent policy changes required to address climate change such as Mandatory Renewable Energy Target of 20% by 2020, Emissions Caps and a carbon price. What evidence can Mr Jardine provide to the community that these new realities have been factored into the demand forecast and project justification used by Powerlink?

G. Smith, Ridgewood

Source:  Eumundi Green