Coalition vows to scrap VNI West transmission project in Victoria
- The Victorian Coalition has pledged to scrap the VNI West transmission project, an estimated $7.6 billion to $11.4 billion initiative designed to connect the Victorian and New South Wales power grids.
- Opposition leaders cited strong resistance from local farmers and claims that the project is not financially viable, proposing alternatives such as unlocking gas reserves and extending the life of coal plants.
- The Labor government has criticized the move as irresponsible, warning that cancelling the renewable energy infrastructure would lead to electricity blackouts and higher utility bills for residents.
With only 100 days remaining until the state election, the Victorian Coalition has intensified its energy policy by promising to scrap the controversial VNI West transmission project. This move elevates the opposition’s previous commitment to merely pause and review the project, signaling a definitive rejection of the infrastructure plan following sustained pressure from rural communities.
Nationals deputy leader Emma Kealy described the project as “dead, buried, and cremated,” asserting that a deep dive into the data proved the multi-billion dollar development would never be viable. The proposed transmission line, intended to link Victoria to the New South Wales power grid, carries a massive estimated cost ranging from $7.6 billion to $11.4 billion.
While the Labor government maintains that VNI West is essential for integrating renewable energy and ensuring grid reliability, the project has faced fierce and widespread resistance. Farmers across Western Victoria, whose land lies directly in the path of the planned route, have been at the forefront of the opposition, citing concerns over property rights and environmental impact.
To address future energy needs, the Coalition has outlined an alternative strategy focused on price sustainability and local generation. Their plan involves unlocking state gas reserves and extending the operational life of coal-fired power stations to their technical limits. Additionally, the Coalition proposed a shift toward metropolitan solar parks, which would generate electricity closer to high-demand areas like Melbourne to reduce the need for long-distance transmission lines.
The Labor government has condemned the Coalition’s pledge, with Energy and Resources Minister Jaclyn Symes labeling the decision “reckless” and “irresponsible.” Symes warned that abandoning the project would compromise Victoria’s energy security, potentially leading to widespread blackouts and significantly higher electricity bills for households across the state.
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Original article and photo by "ABC News"
