Online information session
Join Evoenergy staff online to learn more about the project and get answers to your questions.
Time: 5.30pm – 6.30pm
Date: Monday 17 August, 2026
We are planning to upgrade the electricity network in the suburbs east of Civic, including Ainslie, Reid and Campbell.
As the area continues to grow and electrify, demand on the electricity network is increasing. New developments, increased uptake of electric vehicles and the transition to electric appliances means higher demand for electricity. We need to strengthen the local network to ensure homes and businesses continue to enjoy a reliable electricity supply.
A new underground feeder to deliver more power
The project involves installing a new underground 11kV feeder that will travel through Ainslie, Reid and Campbell.
11kV feeders are an important part of the electricity network. They carry power from a zone substation (in this case the City East Zone Substation) to distribution stations, which then transform the electricity to a voltage suitable for use in homes and businesses. A feeder comprises power cables contained within conduit under the ground. The new City East 11kV feeder will mean that we’re able to get more power to the suburbs where it’s needed, when it’s needed.
What the project will involve
We are preparing to lodge a development application (DA) for the works that will need to be undertaken to install the new feeder.
The works will require the use of construction methods, such as trenching (open excavation) or underboring (drilling under roads or sensitive areas), to enable us to install the feeder underground.
We recognise these works may be disruptive and have carefully selected a proposed route for the feeder that aims to:
- Minimise impacts on residents, businesses and public spaces
- Use existing road reserves and disturbed areas where possible
- Avoid more sensitive locations where feasible
We are committed to keeping disruptions to a minimum and maintaining access to all areas and facilities throughout the upgrade project.
Project timeline
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM, 17 August 2026 – Online information session with Evoenergy staff.
Join Evoenergy staff online to learn more about the project and find out the answers to your questions. Register here.
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM, 18 August 2026 – On-site walk and information session with Evoenergy staff.
Join Evoenergy staff on a walk around the site of proposed works, ask questions, and learn more about the project. Meet at the entrance to Ainslie Village, down from the corner of Hayley Street and Quick Street. Register here.
Prior to end of 2026 – Development application (DA) submitted by Evoenergy.
The DA for proposed works to install a new underground 11kV feeder running from the City East Zone Substation towards Lake Burley Griffin will be submitted to the Territory Planning Authority.
Early 2027 – Territory Planning Authority expected to make decision on DA and inform Evoenergy of outcome.
First half of 2027 – If DA is approved, Evoenergy will commence project works.
Mid 2027 – Planned completion of project works. New 11kV feeder in use.
Further information
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Feeder route
The current preferred route for the feeder has been selected based on engineering requirements, access, road reserve availability, environmental and heritage considerations, tree impacts and with the aim of reducing disruption where possible.
Ecology, heritage and environmental investigations, including field surveys and walk-throughs, have been used to identify site sensitivities and inform the route outlined in the development application.
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Construction works
The proposed works include both open trenching and under boring (a method of creating an underground tunnel to install the cable without disturbing the surface above), depending on the location. Under boring reduces surface impacts, while open trenching is often faster in suitable areas.
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Development application (DA)
We are currently putting together a DA for the proposed works. We are aiming to submit the DA to the Territory Planning Authority prior to the end of 2026. Should the DA be approved, we will then finalise planning and confirm the construction timeline.
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Safety
The safety of the community and our crews is our top priority. Before construction starts, safety measures will be carefully planned, including clear signage, barriers around work zones and appropriate separation between construction activity and pedestrians, cyclists, students, residents and businesses.
We will use proven safety measures throughout the project to help protect the community. This includes designing and installing the cable in a way that reduces electromagnetic fields (EMF) and keeps electrical earthing levels well within accepted safety limits.
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Noise management
Some noise is expected during construction, particularly where open trenching, excavation or boring equipment is required. We will plan works to minimise noise where possible, use construction methods suited to each location and provide advance notice to nearby residents, businesses, schools and other affected stakeholders. Confirmed construction hours will be shared as planning progresses.
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Traffic management
During construction, people travelling through the area may notice temporary changes to traffic, parking or pedestrian access near work zones. Traffic management arrangements will be put in place to ensure safety around the works and minimise disruption where possible.
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Environmental impacts
The proposed route has been selected to reduce impacts where possible, including using existing road reserves and disturbed areas and avoiding more sensitive locations where feasible. Ecology, heritage and environmental investigations, including field surveys and walk-throughs, are being used to identify site sensitivities and inform the development application. Construction methods, such as under boring may be used in some locations to reduce surface disturbance, while open trenching may be used where conditions are suitable.
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Access to Mount Ainslie reserve
We recognise Mount Ainslie reserve is a valued public space and that nearby residents, walkers, runners and community groups may be interested in how access will be managed.
The project team will aim to maintain access to public areas and facilities throughout the upgrade, with any temporary changes communicated in advance.
Where works are proposed near the reserve edge or existing paths, we will make every effort to keep disruption to a minimum.
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Community engagement
Through community engagement activities we are working to ensure the community are informed about the proposed works.
We will be meeting with local stakeholders, including residents and businesses, special interest groups, and schools, to provide clear information about the project and answer any questions.
We invite anyone interested in the project to join our online information session. Please see the details at the top of the page or email feedback@communicationlink.com.au for more information.