AEMO Updates Integrated System Plan: Authorizes Early Substation Equipment Procurement for VNI West 500 kV Interconnector
The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) has issued an operational update under its 2026 Integrated System Plan (ISP), authorizing transmission utilities...
AEMO Updates Integrated System Plan: Authorizes Early Substation Equipment Procurement for VNI West 500 kV Interconnector
The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) has issued an operational update under its 2026 Integrated System Plan (ISP), authorizing transmission utilities Transgrid and Transmission Company Victoria (TCV) to fast-track long-lead substation equipment procurement for the VNI West 500 kV interconnector.
- Publish date: 2026-09-12
- Category: HVDC & Substations
- Original source: Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) & Transmission Co.
- Reading time: 5 min
Securing Transformer Production Slots Ahead of Global Queues
VNI West will establish a new 500 kV double-circuit high-capacity transmission corridor linking the Western Renewables Link near Bulgana in Victoria to Dinawan in New South Wales.
To avoid global manufacturing lead times exceeding three years, the early procurement release covers twelve 500/330 kV autotransformers rated at 500 MVA, high-voltage shunt reactors, and 500 kV optical current transformers.
Unlocking Multi-Gigawatt Renewable Energy Zones (REZs)
The interconnector will double inter-state transmission transfer capacity between Victoria and New South Wales, unlocking over 3,400 MW of new utility-scale solar, wind, and storage developments.
Commissioning is scheduled for 2031, serving as a critical spine for Australia’s National Electricity Market transition.
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