AusNet has installed two new quick generator connection points in Emerald and Cockatoo to improve preparedness for future severe weather events.
AusNet’s Executive General Manager of Distribution Andrew Linnie said this is just one of the ways AusNet is preparing the network ahead of summer.
“Unfortunately, weather events such as those that occurred in February and August-September this year are expected to become more frequent,” he said.
“We’re doing more to prepare and looking at additional ways we can support our communities through these significant weather events.”
Following the storms in February this year AusNet attended community feedback sessions to look at ways it could improve its response to weather-related events.
“The Cockatoo and Emerald communities told us their main concern was being able to get petrol and food during extended power outages. We determined that we could better support the community by ensuring key services can be maintained via mobile generator during extended power outages,” said Mr Linnie.
“Quick generation points will enable mobile generators to be connected faster, with the opportunity for pre-storm deployment”
In Emerald, a generator would enable the supply of several services, including the IGA, petrol station, SES and medical centre.
In Cockatoo, a generator would provide power for the IGA, pharmacy, RSL and the Telstra exchange, which will enable some mobile phone communication.
“Our focus during severe weather outages will continue to be on restoring power to everyone as safely and as quickly as possible,” Mr Linnie said.
“We will look at expanding this concept to other communities across our network if successful.”
