The Merredin community is set to experience improved power reliability following network upgrade and maintenance work including the replacement of 159 poles and 12kms of overhead power lines in the Merredin townsite.
The Western Power work which commenced in late October, will continue through December 2022, and occur again between February and June 2023, and aims to improve network power reliability.
“Western Power is committed to providing the Merredin community with a safe and reliable electricity supply and that is why we’re making this substantial investment in infrastructure,” Western Power Executive Manager of Asset Operations, Zane Christmas, said.
“We’re replacing 159 poles, 12km of overhead power lines, and carrying out other essential maintenance concentrated within the Merredin townsite,” Mr Christmas said.
“The work will improve our ability to switch electricity around the network in the town of Merredin, assisting the capability to divert or isolate damaged parts of the network when required.
“The number of switching points will be increased so that in the event of an outage, we can reduce more quickly the number of people impacted by a fault and restore connections more quickly.
“Additionally, sections of cable will be upgraded so there is capacity to move electricity loads around the town, improving restoration times.
“We’ve collaborated with the community to minimise the impact of this work however, residents may experience some power interruptions while upgrades are underway,” he said.
“We’ve undertaken extensive engagement in the area to ensure the community is aware of the planned work, including meeting with the Shire of Merredin to determine suitable days and times for outages.
“Our teams on the ground have engaged with the hospital, Shire office, business operators within the industrial area, recreation centre, hotel and school.
“We understand that the planned work may cause some short-term inconvenience, but we expect that these upgrades will bring improvements to reliability of power supply to the town.”
Crews from Vasse and Bridgetown will assist in undertaking work in the Shire of Merredin.
Customers will be notified a minimum of three business days (but typically up to 9 business days) prior to an outage that interrupts power supply.
“While we aim to keep any disruption to a minimum, residents may notice dust, noise and excavation work where the pole replacement are being undertaken. Traffic management will also be in place,” he said.
“It’s our goal to get the job done quickly, safely and with the least impact to residents and businesses.”