Alternatives to Transpower pylons outlined

Alternatives to Transpower's proposed 190kms of pylons to power Auckland have been revealed.

Electricity Commission chairman Roy Hemmingway outlined a series of options including underground lines, converting alternating current lines to direct current which could carry more power on existing lines, and generating power in Auckland and Northland.

However, Mr Hemmingway told a meeting near Huntly last night that the commission was still finalising the shortlist, which was based on an examination of 135 public submissions.

Decisions had to be made quickly, he said.

"It's a serious issue because our projections are that by 2010 there is a risk that during peak times -- a cold winter's day -- the ability to consume will be compromised.

"Something must be done otherwise there could be massive problems."

The shortlist will be released on December 7 during a series of public meetings. It will be the first indication of what the commission could say in February when it announces a draft decision on whether Transpower gets permission to build the line.

Mr Hemmingway said the final decision would be mainly based on a cost-benefit test created by the commission.



Transpower maintains there is no feasible alternative to the planned 450-tower 400kV line to prevent power shortages in Auckland and Northland by winter 2010.

However, pylon opponent group New Era Energy has threatened to take Transpower to the Environment Court if it goes ahead.

The group has vowed to fight the proposed $500m transmission line across the Waikato if the company gets approval from the Electricity Commission.

- nzpa