Power Restored to NSW's Far West Following Storm Outages

Electricity has been restored to the far west region of New South Wales, thanks to a large-scale backup generator. However, authorities are urging residents to conserve energy, especially during peak hours, as repair efforts to the network continue.

A severe storm on November 16 caused extensive damage to transmission towers in the region, leaving many communities without power. To provide temporary relief, Transgrid has deployed a backup generator while they work on constructing replacement towers. However, the generator is not capable of meeting the region's full demand during peak hours, particularly from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM (Australian Central Daylight Time).

Essential Energy, the region’s utility provider, has advised that power may need to be rotated between different areas during peak demand times to avoid overloading the system. They are prioritizing critical services like Broken Hill Base Hospital and customers on life support. To help manage power, residents are encouraged to:

• Turn off non-essential appliances

• Use lights only in occupied rooms

• Set air conditioning to 26ºC and close windows and doors

Outside of peak hours, the government has said that the community can use electricity as they normally would.

The affected areas include Broken Hill, Tibooburra, Wilcannia, Menindee, White Cliffs, and surrounding regions. An emergency response team has been activated by the New South Wales Government to coordinate recovery efforts, including supplies of fuel, generators, cool rooms, lighting towers, and satellite connections. A New South Wales Rural Fire Service truck has delivered these supplies to the far west to aid in the recovery process.

In addition to rotating power, Essential Energy will manage off-peak electricity to ensure hot water units may operate at different times than usual. If demand exceeds supply, some temporary power interruptions may be necessary.

New South Wales Energy Minister Penny Sharpe praised the efforts of Essential Energy and Transgrid workers for their swift response in restoring power to Broken Hill and surrounding communities. She also acknowledged the contributions of Perilya Mine, which provided additional load for the backup generator, ensuring grid stability.

Roy Butler, Member for Barwon, emphasized the importance of checking on vulnerable neighbors and relatives during this challenging time. He also welcomed the arrival of supplies, including generators, to aid in the region's recovery.

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