The question challenges Western Power's preferred route for a transmission line through residential areas, questioning community engagement, safety, and the consideration of alternative routes. The answer defends the chosen route based on urbanisation considerations and crown land use, and states adherence to safety guidelines, but does not directly address community metrics or detailed safety evidence.

AnsweredQoN 1382Legislative Council
Asked
18 March 2026
Portfolio
Energy and Decarbonisation

QuestionView source ↗

(1) Why has Western Power identified the above-ground route for the Clean Energy Link Wangara Substation to Neerabup Terminal Transmission Line (Project) through an existing and planned future residential area as a preferred option, when a viable alternative exists to the east along the future Whiteman to Yanchep Highway road reserve? (2) How has Western Power, in its planning of the Clean Energy Link Wangara Substation to Neerabup Terminal Transmission Line (Project) route, met its obligation to engage with communities as specified under the 2023 Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) rule to enhance transmission network service providers (TNSPs)? (3) What metrics of community support or opposition has Western Power recorded for the current route through established and future residential areas? (4) What evidence can Western Power provide that its design of the Clean Energy Link Wangara Substation to Neerabup Terminal Transmission Line (Project) is the safest route option of the viable alternatives?

AnswerView source ↗

Answered
5 May 2026
Responded by
Leader of the House representing the Minister for Energy and Decarbonisation
Response time
2 days
(1 – 4)
Western Power has engaged and consulted with stakeholders, including the City of Wanneroo, since 2014 and more extensively since July 2025.
While Western Power typically considers the most direct route for a transmission line, careful consideration of the future urbanisation in the East Wanneroo District Structure Plan saw an alternative line route selected.  The selected line route between the Wangara Substation and Neerabup Terminal exclusively utilises crown land.
Western Power assets are required to meet relevant State and National safety guidelines.

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