On 31 October 2025, TasNetworks submitted its contingent project application to us, seeking an increase to its revenue to fund construction of the North West Transmission Developments (NWTD) Stage 1 contingent project in accordance with clause 6A.8.2 of the National Electricity Rules (NER). This NWTD Stage 1 contingent project application relates to the Tasmanian on-land portion of Project Marinus between Tasmania and Victoria.
Background
North West Transmission Development (NWTD) involves significant upgrades to the existing high voltage alternating current (HVAC) 220 kV transmission network in north west Tasmania. These upgrades are to facilitate the efficient connection and operation of the Marinus Link high voltage direct current (HVDC) interconnector between Tasmania and Victoria. Stage 1 of the NWTD is in support of Cable 1 of the two 750 MW HVDC cables associated with the Marinus Link interconnector between Tasmania and Victoria. TasNetworks is responsible for NWTD and Marinus Link Pty Ltd is responsible for Marinus Link.
The combined Marinus Link and NWTD projects forms Project Marinus, a single actionable Integrated System Plan (ISP) project, identified in the 2024 ISP optimal development path.
Following our decision on the Stage 1 early works contingent project application in March 2025, TasNetworks is submitting the Stage 1 construction contingent project application to us, seeking to recover revenue for the construction project costs.
Our role is to review the prudency and efficiency of the proposed costs within the Stage 1 application to ensure consumers pay no more than necessary. We have 40 business days from receiving the application or responses to information requests to make our decision.