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Australian energy networks aid faster, safer Fiji power restoration

Australian energy networks have sent a fleet of donated heavy machinery and vehicles to help accelerate the safe restoration of Fiji’s electricity network devastated by Tropical Cyclone Winston in February.

Energy Networks Association CEO, John Bradley, said a team of Australian energy networks had partnered with the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to assess damage and identify much needed resources.

“Cyclone Winston knocked down or damaged over 4,500 power poles with impacts on up to 90% of the Fijian electricity network,” Mr Bradley said.

“The donations by 10 Australian energy companies will speed up reconstruction of the electricity network in Fiji by an estimated 25%, completing works months earlier.

“It will make a big difference to the safety and quality of power restoration and will increase the future reliability of the Fiji electricity network during severe weather events.”

 The donation to the Fiji Electricity Authority includes seven heavy vehicles – crane borers, elevated work platforms and a service truck – and $270,000 of specialised tools and equipment including electrical test equipment, hydraulic cutting tools, drills and pole saws.

The consortium of energy networks contributing to the restoration effort includes ActewAGL, Ausgrid, AusNet Services, Energex, Ergon Energy, Essential Energy, Jemena, SA Power Networks, TasNetworks and Zinfra Group.

Zinfra Group Managing Director, Steve MacDonald, said:
“When DFAT asked Zinfra to assist in the Fiji disaster recovery, we jumped at the opportunity to be a part of the response effort. We initially sent our Power Operations Manager to be part of the assessment team to carry out a needs assessment in Fiji.

As a result of this exercise, we have provided equipment as recommended in the assessment report, which will assist in expediting the rebuilding of the electrical infrastructure in Fiji. The equipment supplied will also help ensure that all future construction is built to a high quality and improve network resilience to cyclonic conditions."