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Powercor has unveiled the fencing design of the new Ballarat East Zone Substation as it gears up to begin building the essential infrastructure this month.
The exterior design of the site at 203 York Street, Ballarat East was developed in partnership with residents who were invited to provide feedback and vote on a range of concepts and options.
The fence will be painted in Pale Eucalypt (green) and Evening Haze (neutral) with some areas available for painted murals. It will feature modern perforated metal panels showcasing distinct patterns and pictures celebrating the local area. Varying in height, from 3.1-3.5 metres high, the fence will have soft low-level feature lighting. A range of native shrubs will be planted around the fence.
Construction of the zone substation is set to begin the week of 14 July, 2025. Once complete, the zone substation will provide power reliability and safety benefits to 82,000 homes and businesses by supporting Ballarat’s growing population, greater electrification and the network in the event of power outages and extreme weather.
Powercor spokeswoman Emma Tyner said architects had incorporated the community’s feedback to deliver a visually appealing design to surround the site.
“The fence design incorporates modern elements such metal panelling while providing a nod to the past by using images of the gold rush era, Eureka Stockade flag, Ballarat’s heritage buildings, Lake Wendouree and other local icons,” Ms Tyner said.
“This is one-of-a-kind design is sympathetic to the local surrounds and a tribute to what makes Ballarat an amazing place to live.”
Powercor is today notifying residents about the construction start date. From next week, a portable office will be installed at the site ahead of earthworks, which will involve preparing and levelling the site, as well as the delivery and removal of ground materials such as soil and rocks.
“Our highly-experienced project team has been finalising the designs and planning for the new substation that will provide safe and reliable power to the region,” Ms Tyner said.
“While we are taking measures to reduce the impact on the community as much as possible, there will be an increase in activity on and around the site during construction. This will include more machinery and vehicles. We will keep neighbouring residents updated on our work at the site and we will continue speaking directly with residents about the project.”
Construction will occur during standard working hours, from 7am to 6pm, Monday to Friday. There will be occasional work on weekends between 8am and 4pm.
Powercor is also finalising how it will invest the $200,000 Community Legacy Fund, with residents providing a range of concepts and ideas. The winning idea will be announced shortly.
Powercor has notified residents about how to access the Community Solar Fund, that provides funding of up to $10,000 towards a solar system or battery. Over 20 households have taken already taken up the offer.
Ballarat’s third zone substation is being built on a site owned by Powercor for over 50 years and is expected to be operating by early 2026. Work will continue until mid-2026 as the team completes landscaping and other activities. For updates on the project, visit www.powercor.com.au/network-planning-and-projects/major-projects/ballarateastzss/
