Work has started on a $100 million electricity upgrade that is set to deliver more reliable power for the rapidly growing southern Sunshine Coast.
The SunSouth Power Project will span 11 kilometres from Meridan Plains to a new substation at Bells Creek, providing a more robust network for more than 50,000 homes and businesses.
The first contract for the project’s substation civil works was awarded to Queensland-based Bryant Building Contractors, with additional contracts expected to be announced in the coming months.
The project is expected to ensure long-term energy security for the area and is scheduled for completion by early 2027, subject to weather and market supply conditions.
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State Member for Caloundra Kendall Morton said the upgrade would be key for the Sunshine Coast’s future growth.
“Growing communities not only need additional water and roads, but they also require upgraded electricity infrastructure to maintain a safe and reliable power supply,” she said.
Ms Morton said the upgrade was a game changer for a rapidly growing region.
“This state-of-the-art power grid will enhance the electricity network for existing homes and businesses between Caloundra and Bells Creek and will also cater to the additional 50,000 residents expected to move into the Aura community,” she said.
“We want this growing community to rest assured we have their best interests at heart and are committed to delivering the energy security and stability they deserve.”
Energex chief engineer Jason Hall said the project will help meet the region’s energy demands.
“The 132,000-volt SunSouth project, which combines both overhead and underground construction, will provide the power needed to support the modern lifestyles of both current and future residents,” he said.
“This includes accommodating emerging technologies such as electric vehicles, home batteries, and rooftop solar, while ensuring the network remains resilient during severe weather events.
“Once the new Bells Creek substation is operational, it will ease the load on the existing Caloundra substation and will enable Energex to divert power between the two substations during storms or unexpected outages, allowing for faster restoration and improved reliability for the community.”
The substation is located at 447 Bells Creek Arterial Road.
