Dubbo and Surrounds High Voltage Upgrades

When new galvanised steel power poles are installed, their shiny surface can cause temporary glare.

Natural dulling occurs over time as the galvanised steel poles are gradually exposed to environmental elements such as sunlight, rain, and wind. This leads to a thin layer of zinc oxide and other compounds forming on the surface, creating a matte, grey finish that significantly reduces glare. This process is known as patination, and enhances the pole’s resistance to corrosion, offering a protective barrier without the need for chemical treatments or coatings.

Glare from steel poles is a challenge that all electricity networks face and prior to construction we explored treatment options such as dulling agents, painting, and vinyl wrapping to reduce glare.

Although dulling agents can reduce initial glare, they ultimately produce the same result as natural weathering. Applying a treatment to the poles being installed in Dubbo was found to have a significant impact on project costs without offering a lasting improvement over what would otherwise occur naturally.

Applying paint to galvanised steel poles introduces significant maintenance and environmental concerns. During transportation and installation, painted surfaces can be easily scratched or chipped, compromising both the appearance and the protective qualities of the finish. Over time, exposure to the elements causes the paint to degrade and flake, detracting from the visual amenity of the pole and potentially creating a pollution risk.

Vinyl wrapping was also investigated. Moisture can become trapped between the wrap and the metal surface, creating an ideal environment for corrosion to develop, undermining the pole’s structural integrity and reducing its lifespan. Vinyl wraps are also known to be targets for graffiti, leading to further maintenance and aesthetic challenges. The adhesive used to secure the wrap may also deteriorate over time, resulting in peeling or bubbling, which detracts from the pole’s appearance.

After considering these options, we have determined that allowing the poles to weather naturally provides best balanced outcome for managing glare, asset life, and cost to consumers. Natural weathering minimises environmental impact, ensures lasting durability, and resolves glare issues over time. We do recognise that the initial glare from new galvanised steel poles has caused inconvenience for the community, and we sincerely appreciate your patience and understanding as the weathering process takes place.

As we continue to make our way south through Keswick drilling holes, we've been able to commence standing new poles where concrete foundations have cured around Birch Avenue and Hennessy Drive.

See some pictures below of the new poles.

Boring of foundations for the new poles is underway with holes mostly completed between Birch Avenue and the Mitchell Highway. Concrete has been poured which will take a few weeks to cure and then we can return to erect the new power poles in this section.

Next week (26 May), we will commence boring of foundations from Hindmarsh Esplanade, heading south towards our Zone Substation near the greyhound racing club. We don't anticipate any impacts to roads or traffic but there will be noise from the drilling rig as it bores holes during normal construction hours.

• Up to 34m tall
• Steel composition
• Concrete footing base

• Prime movers/Semi trailers
• Drilling rigs
• Cranes
• Elevated Work Platforms
• Excavators/Backhoes
• Stringing equipment
• Pole bores
• Traffic signs
• Temporary fencing