NWTD News - March 2026

NWTD edges closer to construction

TasNetworks is thrilled that after a detailed assessment, the Tasmanian Planning Commission (TPC) has granted a planning permit for the North West Transmission Developments.

Broadly, the planning permit provides approval for the development of electricity transmission infrastructure associated with NWTD Stage 1.

The permit is subject to a comprehensive suite of conditions designed to ensure the project is delivered responsibly and in accordance with the relevant legislation. TasNetworks is now working through the detailed requirements to ensure full compliance before the start of work.

TasNetworks anticipates that the Australian Government will make its determination on NWTD under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC) around late April 2026, which will then enable the TasNetworks Board to make its final investment commitment to construct the project.

Of the 142 private landholders where a new easement is required, TasNetworks has achieved voluntary agreements with 97 per cent. The statutory easement acquisition process will be used for remaining landholders.

Early site mobilisation by TasNetworks’ head contractor, GenusPlus Group, started in December 2025 and continue in earnest. Detailed design is 90 per cent complete.

Full construction will start immediately upon the TPC planning permit (pending appeal) and EPBC approval taking effect and work being able to lawfully start under them.

In February 2026, the Australian Energy Regulator (AER) made its final decision on construction costs for Stage 1 of NWTD, with the approval providing revenue certainty for TasNetworks.

TasNetworks continues to finalise concessional finance arrangements with the Clean Energy Finance Corporation, which will significantly reduce the pricing impacts of the project on Tasmanian electricity consumers.

Eagle nest aerial inspections to take place during April

TasNetworks will be doing aerial inspections in April 2026 to locate nests of threatened bird species, including the wedge-tailed eagle and white-bellied sea eagle, near the proposed North West Transmission Developments route.

The surveys will start on 16 April 2026 for a period of 13 - 17 days (excluding weekends) and is weather dependent.  

The surveys will occur across the NWTD route around: Poatina, Cressy, Bracknell, Westbury, Deloraine, Elizabeth Town, Sheffield, Barrington, Kimberley, Kindred, Forth, Gawler, Stowport, Ulverstone, Penguin, Heybridge and Burnie.

TasNetworks avoids placing infrastructure near nests and uses survey results to plan construction activities so that disturbance is avoided, particularly during breeding season.

Whilst helicopter surveying can be disruptive, it is essential that we make sure our information about existing nest locations remains accurate, and that we note the location of any new nests before construction starts.

TasNetworks uses standardised nest survey methods guided by the Forest Practices Authority. Precautionary protocols are followed and surveys are conducted outside of the breeding season to minimise impacts.

Any new eagle nests located are registered in the Tasmanian Natural Values Atlas database.

For more information, please visit the eagle nest surveying FAQ page.

Genus establishes new office in East Devonport

Genus has officially taken possession of its upgraded office facility in East Devonport, marking an important step in supporting upcoming works on the North West Transmission Developments.

The office building has undergone significant upgrades, with the works delivered by local contractors, helping to generate early economic activity in the region. A small contingent of Genus staff is already operating from the site, with the facility set to support ongoing project delivery as activity increases.

The East Devonport office and associated laydown yard were previously vacant and unused properties. Through new rental agreements, the sites are now contributing positively to the local economy and creating renewed purpose for the area.

Genus’ growing presence is also delivering flow‑on benefits to nearby businesses, with increased demand for local goods and services. This early establishment reinforces the project’s commitment to working locally wherever possible and supporting communities along the NWTD corridor.

Getting out and about in the community

As construction draws closer, our team has been getting out and about across the north-west, connecting with local communities and stakeholders.

In late February, we were proud to support Rural Alive and Well’s All Together in the Vineyard event. Our team enjoyed engaging with local community members, and the day also provided a valuable opportunity for our field staff to build stronger relationships with the RAW team.

This month we had the pleasure of attending Ladies Day, an inspiring event hosted by Tasmanian Women in Agriculture at Wesley Dale in Mole Creek. It was an honour to hear the stories of so many women who are thriving in Tasmania’s agricultural industry, and to celebrate the leadership, resilience and innovation they bring to the sector.

Most recently, we joined our friends at Marinus Link for an information session at Heybridge. Between the free BBQ and the kids’ activities, it was a great chance for community members and local residents to ask questions about the converter station site near Burnie, including our switching station and transmission lines.

We look forward to continuing conversations with communities across the north-west as the project progresses.