Essential Energy’s gradual transition to composite poles

What is Happening?

Essential Energy is transitioning to an increased use of composite poles due to evolving business needs. Key benefits of composite poles include supply certainty, manufacturing consistency, fire resilience, immunity to rot, decay, termites and corrosion, light weight, and non-conductive nature. Following long term trials, some regions predominantly use composite poles while others continue to use a blend of timber and composite poles. Supply contracts are in place and approved suppliers listed on our Approved Materials list CEOM7004, can be downloaded from Essential Energy Document Library

While composite poles have a higher upfront cost, they are easier to install, provide a longer life and lower maintenance costs due to immunity to degradation mechanisms that affect other pole types. The lifecycle costs over the long asset life is favourable over other pole types. AER engagement has indicated that our transition plans will be supported through the regulatory proposal.

ASPs can choose composite or timber poles but with full suite of standards and approved materials, can consider composite poles in locations of most value like high bushfire risk or termite risk sites, difficult access locations, operational poles etc.

For more information, please click on the link for Composite Pole Journey and FAQs.

What do you need to do?

Communicate this information to relevant members of your organisation.

Further Information

If you need further information, please email aspinfo@essentialenergy.com.au.