AusNet is pleased to announce the successful completion of upgrades on the Benalla to Euroa electricity distribution line – known as BN11 – a significant step towards enhancing network reliability for Euroa and nearby communities. The newly installed equipment has been activated, and the project now moves into its final monitoring and testing phase.
The medium-term solutions, developed in response to reliability issues experienced during Summer 2023-24, include installations such as a 'Neutral Bus Kiosk' at the Violet Town Remote REFCL site and new technology 'TripSavers', and ‘Intellirupters' across the network area of Euroa.
AusNet Executive General Manager Distribution, Andrew Linnie, said these upgrades were completed ahead of schedule and represent AusNet's commitment to delivering robust, reliable service to the region.
“These improvements mean that when faults do occur, our crews will be able to identify and isolate the fault quicker, reducing unplanned outage times for customers,” he said.
As part of the testing phase, AusNet has commenced fault testing on the network. Residents may experience brief outages over the next few weeks as settings are fine-tuned to optimise network performance.
Further improvements included enhanced equipment assessments and vegetation management. AusNet removed 164 hazard trees and conducted targeted inspections across 1,400 spans of overhead lines, focusing on animal-proofing measures.
Throughout these critical works, AusNet has engaged proactively with the local community via the Strathbogie Benalla Community Liaison Group, ensuring ongoing updates, transparency, and responsive handling of any community concerns.