The Tasmanian Government has welcomed the announcement by Marinus Link of a new major contract signed with Prysmian PowerLink.
The new contract is mainly focused on the design, manufacture, supply, and installation work for Stage 1 of the Marinus Link project.
Marinus Link CEO Caroline Wykamp said the Italian company is the largest cable manufacturer in the world.
“Prysmian has proven and global expertise in delivering projects like Marinus Link,” Wykamp said.
“We have booked their most advanced cabling vessel – the Leonardo Da Vinci.
“Marinus Link will enable Tasmania to import excess supply of solar and wind produced interstate, while reserving its hydro and storing the extra energy. Clean hydropower can then feed the national grid when it is needed most, acting as a large battery for the nation.”
The project’s cables span 345km, 255km undersea across Bass Strait and 90km underground in Gippsland, Victoria.
The Marinus Link is a key component of the State Government’s 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future and is expected to result in lower electricity prices by unlocking new generation capacity in Tasmania and on the Australian mainland.
Tasmania’s Minister for Energy and Renewables, Nick Duigan, said that the project is anticipated to create significant employment opportunities and economic stimulus in Tasmania during the construction phase, with over $1.3 billion in economic activity and 1400 jobs projected.
While the final investment decision (FID) for the project has been proposed for May 2025, the Minister emphasised that the Tasmanian Government will only support proceeding if the benefits for the state are favourable. A comprehensive, publicly released business case will be prepared to enable a sound decision in Tasmania’s interest.
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