The Basslink Interconnector

For the first time ever Tasmania and Victoria are now connected by the world's 2nd longest subsea electricity cable.

As of midnight April the 28th 2006, the Basslink Interconnector has been fully operational.

Basslink sets a new benchmark for submarine electricity transmission. Basslink demonstrates the feasibility of long distance projects and has captured world wide interest.

The Basslink Interconnector

Basslink is a 400kV DC electricity interconnector that allows the trade of electricity between Tasmania and the mainland.  The interconnector is rated to transmit 500 megawatts (MW) of energy on a continuous basis in either direction and up to 630MW export from Tasmania for limited periods.

Basslink enhances security of supply on both sides of Bass Strait; protecting Tasmania against the risk of drought-constrained energy shortages and protecting Victoria and southern states against the forecast shortage of peak load power identified in the NEMMCO Statement of Opportunities.

The Basslink interconnector runs from Loy Yang in Gippsland, Victoria, across Bass Strait to Bell Bay in northern Tasmania. The 290 km undersea cable component of Basslink is the longest of its type in the world.

Basslink has the capacity to export up to a maximum of 630 MW of power from Tasmania to Victoria, and regularly import over 300 MW to Tasmania, with a continuous rating of 480 MW.

Basslink is a wholly owned subsidiary of CitySpring Infrastructure Management Pte Ltd who purchased the interconnector from National Grid in August 2007.

The Basslink Interconnector became fully operational at midnight on April the 28th 2006, commenced transmitting power on 29th April 2006 and was officially opened by Victorian Premier, the Hon Steve Bracks MP, and the Tasmanian Premier, the Hon Paul Lennon MHA, on the 9th of May 2006.