Victoria to NSW Interconnector (VIC)

Finding a way for Victoria and NSW to share power

The Victoria to NSW Interconnector West (VNI West) will increase electricity transfer capacity between New South Wales and Victoria.

The project involves the development of a new 500KV high voltage alternating current (HVAC) interconnector between the Snowy Mountains region and Melbourne.

Developed by the Australia Energy Market Operator (AEMO) in its role as the national transmission planner, VNI West is one of five projects in AEMO’s 2022 Integrated System Plan (ISP). The ISP is designed to support Australia’s transition to a net-zero emissions power system and economy.

Our role

MBB provided strategic, commercial and transaction services to AEMO for VNI West and has since moved into the delivery of the development phase after having successfully procured advisory consultant support for AEMO and the project team.

This includes the delivery of the developmental elements for the Victorian component of the line. These are based on specific strategies and approach, developed by MBB, to deliver the best-in-class design and construction. Successful delivery of these will achieve the desired outcomes for the project including an accelerated program to commence seasonal environmental surveys in 2023.

Despite significant time pressures, MBB mobilised and managed the scoping and procurement of advisors for four key workstreams to ensure AEMO’s objectives were met. 

MBB were also instrumental in developing the commercial terms for the advisor contracts by working collaboratively with AEMO’s legal counsel. This work served to allocate risk that best aligned with the proposed scope of work and AEMO’s existing commercial framework. 

Our services

• Project Development
• Interface Management
• Commercial, Transaction, Finance
• Technical
• Land and Property
• Environmental Planning
• Community Engagement