NWTD News - February 2026

AER revenue determination marks major milestone for NWTD

This month, the Australian Energy Regulator (AER) published its final decisions on construction costs for Stages 1 of Marinus Link and the North West Transmission Developments (NWTD), concluding a near-decade of analysis and consultation.

The regulator’s assessment confirms analysis that Tasmanians and Victorians will be better off with investment in these national infrastructure projects, whose benefits have been extensively tested and costs subject to rigorous scrutiny.

TasNetworks CEO, Seán Mc Goldrick, said the decision on NWTD reflects TasNetworks’ commitment to ensuring project costs remain prudent and efficient.

“This outcome reflects TasNetworks’ strong focus on keeping NWTD construction costs well-managed, particularly at a time when cost-of-living pressures are being felt across Tasmanian households and businesses,” Dr Mc Goldrick said.

“The AER’s approval provides revenue certainty, and is an important step in reaching financial close and commencing construction in the coming months.

“We continue 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.”

The AER’s decision documents are available here:

• Marinus Link
• North West Transmission Developments

TasNetworks is pleased to announce...

As part of the NWTD, we have been working closely with community members, local organisations and stakeholders since 2022 to shape a Community Benefits Sharing Program. TasNetworks is pleased to share that the program will launch in April 2026 under the new name Bright Futures Fund (BFF). 

TasNetworks has committed $10 million towards the Fund, which is designed to create a positive and lasting legacy for communities located within the NWTD project area.

Expressions of Interest now open

In anticipation of the Fund launching soon, we are seeking Expressions of Interest (EOI) from community members to join the BFF Independent Community Assessment Panel.

As a panel member, you’ll play a vital role in:

• Reviewing funding applications
• Providing independent advice
• Helping guide investment decisions that deliver real, meaningful benefits for local communities.

Want to make a difference?
If you're passionate about contributing to positive community outcomes, regardless of whether you have previous experience, we encourage you to apply. 

To be eligible, applicants must live or work within one of the five local government areas within the NWTD project area (Burnie City, Central Coast, Kentish, Northern Midlands or Meander Valley Council).