King & Wood Mallesons (KWM) is pleased to have advised Transgrid on its appointment by EnergyCo as the preferred network operator for the Hunter Transmission Project. This appointment signifies another big step towards a cleaner, more affordable renewable energy future for homes and businesses.
The 100 km, 500 kV transmission line will unlock the electricity supply from the Central-West Orana and New England renewable energy zones, ensuring energy security as we transition from coal-fired power stations to renewable energy.
The KWM team was led by Partner, Shirley Cheng, with support from Senior Associate, Tiffany Yang and Solicitor, Ruby Day. Partner, Steve Swan and Senior Associate Nicole Morris and Solicitor Amy Schiffer assisted on front end construction aspects.
Commenting on the deal, Shirley Cheng said:
“We are delighted to have supported Transgrid on this significant milestone for the Hunter Transmission Project. This is a first of its kind regulatory, commercial and procurement model for transmission infrastructure and a fantastic project for Transgrid. We are delighted to have worked with a great client who plays an essential role in the energy transition – as Transgrid as rightly observed, there is no transition without transmission.”
Transgrid's appointment as the preferred network operator was the culmination of extensive negotiations and novel thinking between Transgrid and EnergyCo and marks the beginning of a new model for electricity transmission delivery. The parties were particularly engaged with defining each party’s roles in delivering the Hunter Transmission Project, to ensure that these accurately reflected each party’s experience, capabilities, commitment and vision for the energy transition. Stakeholders are optimistic that this arrangement will lead to cost-efficient and timely delivery of essential electricity transmission assets in NSW.
KWM continues to be at the forefront of market leading transactions supporting the country’s energy transition, including recently advising financiers on the project financing of Wambo Wind Farm Stage 1 and Stage 2, and the financing and development of Boulder Creek Wind Farm, Carwarp Solar Farm and Goorambat Solar Farm.
