Ardross enhanced by underground power

• Minister attends 'last pole' ceremony in City of Melville

• Ardross West underground project to benefit 684 customers at cost of $6.4m

• 44th consecutive project delivered under budget by Western Power since 2003

Another major underground power milestone has been completed by Western Power after the removal of the last wooden power pole in Ardross West.

Energy Minister Mike Nahan attended the ceremony today and said the transition of Ardross West to underground power had been possible through the State Underground Power Program (SUPP).

Dr Nahan said the project saw the removal of 254 wooden poles and the addition of 153 new street lights.

"The completion of this project represents the 44th consecutive State Underground Power Project (SUPP) to be completed under budget since 2003," he said.

"This is the City of Melville's sixth completed underground power project with this project connecting 684 customers at a cost of $6.4million."

The Minister said the State Government was committed to rolling out an underground power program for Perth suburbs.

Nearly $30million was allocated in the 2013-14 Budget for Round 5 of the SUPP.

"Through the program, $349million has been spent on putting power lines underground and over 80,000 homes have been converted," Dr Nahan said.

"With 55 per cent of Perth power now underground, the community, State Government, Western Power and local governments continue to show their support and appreciation for the program."

The benefits of underground power include improved reliability and security of electricity supply for consumers, enhanced streetscapes and visual amenity, reduced street tree maintenance costs for  local government, improved street lighting and community safety, reduced maintenance costs for Western Power and increased property values.

       Fact File

• Since inception in 1996, 74 projects have been completed, converting over 80,000 houses at a cost of $349million

• In 2013-14, Western Power will lay powerlines underground in the suburbs of Hamilton Hill East, Ardross West, Attadale North, Coolbellup East, Coolbinia, Shoalwater North and Wilson East

Minister's office - 6552 5700