Ageing power poles spark worries

THE ageing power poles in South West Victoria are worrying many residents.

A recent report by Energy Safe Victoria revealed that more than half the power poles in Victoria were installed over 40 years ago.

State member for Polwarth Richard Riordan says that not replacing these poles could have severe consequences.

“This technical investigation report shows that country Victoria is facing a massive safety crisis.

“Energy Safe Victoria have confirmed that 1.3 per cent of wooden power poles will need to be replaced per year. On current estimates Powercor’s target of 2200 won’t get close to Energy Safe’s estimates of 7500 per year needing to be replaced.”

The report showed that six of the fires started during the 2018 St Patrick’s Day Fires are now known to involve electricity distribution assets.

Yet Riordan is demanding a more proactive approach.

“We need action now, not in the future after disaster has struck.”

Energy Safe Victoria’s report on the condition of power poles can be viewed at bit.ly/2KvJIMu.