Cultana East

The customer

ElectraNet is South Australia’s leader in electricity transmission, responsible for delivering safe, reliable, and efficient high-voltage power across the state. The company operates an extensive network of transmission lines and high-voltage substations, spanning a vast area of more than 200,000 square kilometres. This critical infrastructure underpins South Australia’s energy security and supports the integration of renewable energy sources, enabling the state’s transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future.

The opportunity

The Cultana East substation project will deliver critical infrastructure to strengthen regional energy networks, improve reliability, and accelerate South Australia’s transition to a clean energy future. It will advance the state’s renewable energy ambitions and create meaningful jobs and skills pathways for local communities, fostering inclusive employment and training opportunities that support long-term growth.

One of the most exciting aspects of this project is the opportunity it presents for local communities, with particular focus on achieving key SA Industry Participation Policy targets. These targets ensure the inclusion of diverse groups within the workforce.

First Nations business integration was not only visible but measurable, with First Nations workforce hours reaching 8.3, highlighting the impact of deliberate planning and proactive engagement on project outcomes.

The solution

• Approximately 3 km east of the existing Cultana Substation
• Construction of 275 kV double-circuit transmission lines connecting Cultana East to Davenport-Cultana transmission line new cut-in structure and to the new 275kV Roopena Substation
• Modification works at Davenport and Cultana substations to upgrade protection systems and ensure seamless integration of the newly constructed transmission lines.

Key Achievements

• Delivered Enerven’s first new 275 kV overhead transmission line in many years, a major milestone in strengthening and showcasing our transmission line construction capabilities.
• Introduced drone stringing operations for the first time in collaboration with ElectraNet, setting a new benchmark in innovation. This approach enabled efficient line installation over challenging terrain while preserving dense local vegetation.
• Exceeded all tailored South Australian Government Industry Participation Policy targets, demonstrating Enerven’s commitment to local industry, job creation, and community benefit.
• Self-performed the majority of works, highlighting the depth of skill and capability within Enerven’s teams and achieved safely over 130,000 hours of direct onsite effort, a testament to the discipline, care, and commitment of every person involved.

The HJP Cultana East project is a landmark achievement for Enerven and the Whyalla region, combining technical excellence with innovation and meaningful community impact. More than delivering critical infrastructure, this project reinforces Enerven’s position as a trusted partner in advancing South Australia’s clean energy future.