TRANSMISSION network TransGrid have called for Aboriginal cultural experts to assist them with major Riverina project EnergyConnect.
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The 900 kilometre interconnector from South Australia to Wagga Wagga requires help "to assess and inform the plans".
Subject to approval by the Australian Energy Regulator, EnergyConnect will enable the sharing of energy between New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia.
These changes would result in lower wholesale energy costs and support growth in renewable energy generation across all three states.
TransGrid will work with Aboriginal knowledge holders to identify sites of significance, including places and artifacts, along a section of the project area between Wagga Wagga and Buronga.
Registrations of interest are currently being accepted by TransGrid, who are eager to find an applicant with cultural knowledge relevant to the area, and has experience with cultural heritage assessments and site monitoring.
Sean McGoldrick, executive manager major projects, says consultation with registered Aboriginal knowledge holders will play a significant role in the project.
"We encourage Aboriginal knowledge holders to work with us, to ensure we understand and are able to incorporate information about culturally significant sites and objects," Mr McGoldrick said.
"The project footprint represents a vast area and we need the help of Aboriginal people to help us shape the right approach to consultation."
Cultural knowledge holders will prove vital when preparing a Cultural Heritage Assessment to assist the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment in assessing the development application for the project.
If approved, EnergyConnect will create 1500 jobs and generate an economic benefit to New South Wales of $4 billion.
Project constructions is expected to being in late 2021, which includes 700 kilometres of new transmission lines in NSW, a new substation west of Wagga Wagga, an expansion of the existing substation and the establishment and upgrade of access tracks and roads.
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