myEnergy
Ballarat East Zone Substation
- Project typeCOMMUNITY
- Current stagePLANNING
- Project duration2024 - 2026
Powercor is upgrading Ballarat’s energy network, ensuring all the city’s homes and businesses can access reliable and safe power as the region’s population grows. Zone substations help connect the higher voltage sub-transmission network to the lower voltage distribution network, allowing electricity to be distributed into our homes and businesses.
Ballarat currently has two substations, and a third is required to meet increasing demand and support the effective ongoing operation of bushfire safety devices installed in the region.
Project Outcomes
Please note pictures of the substation are artist impressions only.
What is happening?
The Ballarat East substation will be located at 203 York Street on land owned by Powercor. This land has been zoned for use “for the construction of services and utilities” for more than 50 years.
Powercor has zone substations in the heart of residential communities in regions like Geelong, Warrnambool, Werribee, Sunshine, Melton, Laverton, Waurn Ponds and Torquay.
The Ballarat East substation will include an architecturally-designed exterior that will be co-designed with the local community. It will also feature technology that reduces the risk of powerline-related bushfires by instantly cutting power if a line is contacted.
Powercor is investing over $30 million to build the new zone substation. As part of the project, Powercor has developed a $2 million Community Benefits Package to provide benefits for individuals and the broader community. As part of this package, Powercor will establish a $200,000 Community Legacy Fund to support investments in parks, recreation or security within the community.
Work is expected to start in early 2025 and be completed before the 2025-2026 summer.
Why is this project important?
The Ballarat East Zone Substation will support Ballarat’s growing population, which is driving an increase in electricity demand on existing infrastructure.
It will support the growth in solar installations, electric vehicles and other electric equipment, and the network in the event of power outages and extreme weather.
The substation will also feature technology designed to protect the broader community by reducing the risk of powerline-related bushfires.
How to get involved
We are committed to working with the local community to design the new Ballarat Zone Substation and the nearby surrounds and invite you to play a pivotal role through our community co-design initiative.
Stage 2 community consultation now closed – next steps
Thank you to everyone who participated in Stage 2 of our community consultation. The survey is now closed and we appreciate your input on the final fence design, colour choices, feature lighting options and the Community Benefit Fund.
We are now in the evaluation stage, where we will review all feedback to finalise the design and determine the Community Benefit Fund outcome.
We’ll provide an update in 2025 on the outcomes and next steps.
Other ways to shape the project
If you would like to request a conversation with us personally you can call 13 22 06 during business hours or email majorprojects@powercor.com.au (external link).
You can also sign up to receive email updates on this project at Engage Powercor.
Webinar – EMF and water management
Thank you to everyone who attended our webinar on Wednesday 31 July. The recording is now available and can viewed at engage.powercor.com.au/ballarateastzss.
If you have any further questions or require assistance viewing the webinar recording please email majorprojects@powercor.com.au
Response to City of Ballarat
On 22 May 2024, the City of Ballarat Council moved a motion seeking an on-site visit between Powercor representative, councillors, council officers and residents in relation to the Ballarat East Zone Sub-Station project. Our response can be viewed here.
Property condition survey
As part of the construction of the new Ballarat East Zone Substation, Powercor is offering a complimentary property condition survey and report for properties within 50 metres of the construction site. This independent assessment records the current condition of eligible properties and serves as a reference in case any concerns arise during or after construction.
Property condition survey FAQs
What is the property condition survey and report?
As part of the construction of the new Ballarat East Zone Substation, Powercor is offering a complimentary property condition survey and report for properties within 50 metres of the construction site. This independent assessment records the current condition of eligible properties and serves as a reference in case any concerns arise during or after construction.
Why is this survey being offered?
Although construction activities are not expected to impact nearby properties, this survey provides a formal record of a property’s condition before work begins. It offers peace of mind to property owners and ensures transparency throughout the construction process.
Who is eligible for the survey?
Properties within 50 metres of the construction site are eligible for the complimentary survey (as per the map below). If you have received a letter from us, your property falls within this area.
Why haven’t I received a letter about this?
Only properties within a 50 metre radius of the construction site are eligible for the survey. If you have not received a letter, your property is outside this area. We are committed to keeping the broader community informed about the project and its progress.
Who conducts the survey?
An independent qualified building and engineering consultant conducts the survey. The assessment is thorough and professionally documented, ensuring an accurate record of the property’s current condition.
Do I have to participate?
No, participation in the survey is entirely optional. However it is recommended for eligible property owners as it provides a valuable reference should any concerns arise.
How much does it cost?
There is no cost to property owners. We are providing the survey free of charge.
How do I arrange an assessment?
If your property is eligible, the independent consultant will contact you to confirm your interest and arrange a suitable time for the assessment.
Location of project
203 York Street, Ballarat East
Have a question?
Visit our Ballarat East Zone Substation project page on Engage Powercor to contribute to the design of the substation and sign up for email updates.
For all other enquiries, email us at majorprojects@powercor.com.au.
Important documents
Fact sheets
Frequently asked questions
Other documents
