The New South Wales (NSW) government has introduced a $4 million community support package for households and small to medium-sized businesses impacted by recent electrical outages. This funding includes $1.5 million from Transgrid.
The outages began after a severe storm damaged seven Transgrid transmission towers on Oct. 17, affecting remote communities like Broken Hill, Tibooburra, Wilcannia, Menindee, and White Cliffs. Over 12,000 properties have experienced power loss, disrupting families, businesses, and schools in the area.
To assist those affected, a large-scale backup generator provided by Transgrid is currently in use while interim towers are being constructed and expected to be operational by Nov. 6. The financial support package includes a $200 payment for residential electricity account holders and $400 grants for small to medium-sized businesses impacted by the outages.
Immediate relief efforts include the distribution of pantry staples, fresh produce, and food hampers by Foodbank NSW/ACT in the Far West region. The government is also collaborating with various agencies to address long-term recovery needs, offering guidance on insurance claims and mental health support.
Residents are advised to reduce energy use during peak hours to ensure the effectiveness of the backup generator. The government has issued an advisory urging residents to turn off non-essential appliances, use lights only in occupied rooms, and raise air conditioning temperatures to reduce strain on the generator.
In addition to the support package, a Natural Disaster Declaration has been issued for Broken Hill, Central Darling Shire, and the Far West Unincorporated Area, granting access to disaster funding. An Electricity Supply Emergency has been declared for the Far West region, allowing necessary measures to address the emergency.
An inquiry has been initiated to assess Transgrid’s regulatory compliance, with a focus on adherence to licensing conditions. Premier Chris Minns has raised concerns about the impact of privatisation on electricity assets in the region, sparking debate in the NSW Parliament.
Overall, the government is working to provide relief to those affected by the outages and ensure the stability of the electricity supply in the Far West region. Could you please provide a different version?
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