South Eastern region acting regional manager Tony Ryan said the multi-staged project would involve construction of a new distribution power line from the Batemans Bay zone substation in Kylie Crescent to Heron Road, where it would meet up with an existing power line.

“This is a complex project with a number of components, including building a power line from the zone substation to the new Bunnings site, replacing several spans of ageing power line with higher-capacity aluminium cable, and moving part of the existing overhead electricity network underground,” he said. 

“The section of power line that runs from the Princes Highway along the southern end of Catalina Country Club Golf Course will be moved underground to help reduce the number of power supply interruptions caused by migrating bats.”

Maintenance works will also be undertaken to replace power poles and cross-arms at the intersection of the Princes Highway and Cranbrook Road. 

“The upgrade will increase local electricity network capacity, provide opportunities for re-directing power during unplanned supply interruptions, and help protect the network from the impacts of contact with wildlife,” Mr Ryan said. 

Work is expected to continue through to June 2015, weather permitting.