Enerven has successfully delivered the design, construction, and commissioning of a new greenfield 275 kV substation in the Eyre Peninsula region of South Australia, approximately 6 km from Whyalla, along with approximately 9 km of 275 kV dual-circuit transmission lines.
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 HJP Cultana East project is a landmark achievement for Enerven and the Whyalla region, combining technical excellence with innovation and meaningful community impact”
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.
Why Enerven?
Our experience in the market place, combined with the expertise and industry knowledge of our team, makes Enerven’s offering second to none – which is why industry leaders such as Electranet, Transgrid, AGL and BHP Billiton trust Enerven with their energy infrastructure assets.
We invest heavily in the best equipment and the professional development of our staff, which means we combine experience and history with innovation and technology to deliver solutions that address the evolving energy distribution requirements of the community.
With a strong supplier and partner network behind us, our highly skilled staff work closely with you to fully understand your specific needs and vision, and will tailor a solution to suit.
Delivering the highest standard of work in a safe and environmentally sustainable manner is our top priority, and we have an outstanding track record to prove it. We focus on building long-term relationships with our clients, we’re committed to working with you for the lifecycle of your project and beyond.
Find out how Enerven can help on your next project.
