News

Essential Energy defends position

By Robert Muir

Jan 12, 2024

Essential Energy has rejected comments by Federation Council as to one reason why the Corowa Saleyards redevelopment project was over budget.

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“The initial application Essential Energy received for Corowa Saleyards redevelopment project included incorrect information. All responses from Essential Energy in relation to the application were delivered within our Service Level Agreement (SLA) timelines,” an Essential Energy spokesperson told The Free Press.

“Changes to the outcome of the requirements for the upgrade to the site were the result of the incorrect information provided on the initial application.”

The saleyards project is expected to be completed in March at a final cost of $11,743,919 with an official opening expected in late March.

At its latest monthly meeting on December 20, Federation Council agreed to additional funds of $151,919 to complete the project due to the project overrun, caused by several factors.

A council spokesperson advised The Free Press that while it appreciates Essential Energy’s assistance thus far in the project, they noted it had been a complex process.

“Council will continue to liaise directly with Essential Energy to progress works with respect to power supply/works at the Corowa Saleyards,” the spokesperson said.