Australia’s Transmission Projects Permitted to Avoid ‘Uncomfortable Scrutiny’: Think Tank

‘With $9 billion at stake, it’s very important to be transparent and follow the process.’

High voltage electricity transmission towers near the Hunter Wetland National Park in Newcastle, Australia, on April 14, 2023. Roni Bintang/Getty Images

Two of Australia’s major renewable energy transmission projects have been given the green light despite not going through a mandatory scrutiny process, a move that could put $9 billion (US$5.9 billion) of taxpayer money at stake and allow cost blowouts to go under the radar.

New South Wales (NSW) grid operator Transgrid is building three massive transmission projects under a simultaneous program.