Fishermans Bend Modernisation 2026-31 Regulatory Proposal

This document is a regulatory proposal concerning the modernisation of the Fishermans Bend area for the period 2026-31. It outlines the identified need to manage the retirement of the existing Fishermans Bend (E) zone substation while supporting demand growth and maintaining a reliable electricity supply. The document assesses several credible options for modernising the supply in the area, including maintaining the status quo, offloading to the Westgate zone substation at 11kV, recommissioning an auto transformer, and considering a non-network solution. The preferred option is to offload E to the Westgate zone substation by replacing E's 6.6kV distribution assets with 11kV assets, which addresses the identified need and provides the highest net benefits. The proposal includes a sensitivity analysis to evaluate the economic benefits of the preferred option under various scenarios. Detailed cost-benefit modelling supports the decision-making process.