Sub Station FAQs

• Is a substation planned for the City of Melville?

Western Power previously identified the need to reinforce the transmission network within the Cities of Melville and Fremantle before 2016 to cater for commercial and residential growth within the area.

After conducting more detailed investigations into the capacity of the existing network and future load requirements, it has been identified  that reinforcement works will not be required until after 2016. Because a solution is not required in the immediate future, Western Power will be deferring its investigations to determine a preferred solution, as many variables may change within the longer time horizon involved.

As previously stated, when forecasting several years into the future it is difficult to predict and allow for load demand changes that may occur at a later date. In order to best meet the needs of a dynamic network, we must remain open and flexible to such changes.

Western Power Response

We have identified a need to improve the reliability and security of power supply within the Cities of Melville and Fremantle within the next five to ten years. Previously there were five options investigated to address this requirement. Establishing a new 132,000 volt (132kV) substation within the City of Melville is one of the five options currently under consideration. Forecasting of future power demand within a given area is based on trends as well as information provided by the West Australian Planning Commission. While this information provides a good indication of future load requirements, it is difficult to predict exact requirements as there are many variables. In order to best meet the needs of a dynamic network, we must remain open and flexible to changes in load forecasts. More information on the five options previously considered is available on the project webpage - click here.

• Have any sites been identified for substations in the City of Melville?

 There are no obvious sites for substations however the City of Melville did identify and forward to Western Power an alternative site for their investigation. In addition to this, Western Power has contacted the City of Melville for information on other sites that we understand have been suggested by community members.

Western Power Response

A property located at 24 Fifth Street, Bicton, was acquired by Western Power in 1967 for the purpose of reinforcing the electricity network within the Cities of Melville and Fremantle. Western Power no longer require this site and the City is currently in negotiations to purchase the site for use as a public park.

If the City of Melville received an application for a substation would it be approved?

If a State Agency wants to build a substation on its own land then this falls outside of local government legislation. Western Power is exempt from requirement to obtain planning approval under local government Town Planning Scheme for substations and related works.

Where land is zoned under the Metropolitan Region Scheme (MRS) Public Authorities must obtain planning approval from WA Planning Commission.

The Myaree substation land owned by Western Power is zoned under MRS.

Western Power Response

As the development of a substation within the City of Melville is considered as public works by a public authority on a site zoned under the metropolitan regional scheme, it requires the determination of the West Australian Planning Commission. Although the decision making body would be the West Australian Planning Commission in this instance, Western Power would refer the application to the City of Melville to seek comment from the community and recommend conditions of approval to the Commission.

How much Public Open Space does there need to be in an area?

 The Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC) Development Control Policy 2.3 (May 2002) establishes the parameters for the provision of Public Open Space (POS) as being 10 per cent of gross sub-divisible area.

It should be noted that this provision has its basis in the recommendations of the Plan for the Metropolitan Region Perth and Fremantle, 1955 report (the Stephenson – Hepburn Plan) and that Bicton was originally subdivided as early as 1917 and 1921.

In this context it should be noted that the provision of POS is determined as a component of the subdivision approval process for new developments and not retrospectively. The Development Control Policy 2.3 also provides options for the allocation of sites for community facilities or for cash-in-lieu of open space.

Given the typically staged nature of traditional suburban development it is therefore possible for Public Open Space availability to vary between localities.

The City of Melville’s Open Space Strategy (2004) was compiled to establish an overview of the total open space (regional, local, schools and recreational) within the City of Melville. A review of open space throughout the City is being developed in order to inform the City’s ongoing strategic planning processes.

• Has there been a public consultation on the issue of a substation?

 Western Power organised community workshops at the City of Melville Civic Centre on 2 March 2010 and  27 May 2010.

If an application is received for a substation, the City of Melville will expect Western Power to advertise the proposal, call for public submissions and organise further public consultation.

Western Power Response

Western Power has held several community consultation sessions in relation to the Melville-Fremantle Power Reinforcement Options project. We have responded to community suggestions of alternative sites by investigating and communicating the feasibility of those alternatives. Details of the sessions including report on proceedings can be found on the project’s webpage - click here.

In the event that a substation is required in the future, Western Power would conduct community sessions to allow the decision-making process to remain as transparent as possible.

• I am concerned about electromagnetic emissions from a potential substation. What are the health risks

Western Power's Website states:

A common concern from community members relates to electromagnetic fields (EMF), which occur wherever electricity is used. They are a natural by-product of electricity and occur around all electrical items, including those in our homes.

We design, construct and operate our powerlines and facilities in compliance with the guidelines recommended by the World Health Organisation and the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia.

We remain committed to following the recommended safe limits of exposure to EMF for workers and the public.

• Do substations make noise?

Western Power's Website states:

Substations are known to emit noise. In some situations, it is necessary to build a solid wall around a substation or alternatively to install noise enclosures around transformers. These requirements are determined in accordance with Government defined noise regulations.

• How can I express my opinions about a substation?

 If you wish to communicate any concerns related to the option of the establishment of a new substation within the City of Melville  you can write to City of Melville councillors, the local Member for Parliament, the Minister for Energy and Western Power.  

• Further information

For further information on substations in the City of Melville contact 1300 635 845.

Western Power Response

Visit the project webpage - click here.

Email the enquiries inbox enquiries@westernpower.com.au or call 13 10 87 (7.00am-5.00pm Monday to Friday).