Marinus Link Secures Final Approval for Tasmania-Victoria Clean Energy Connection
Marinus Link has received its long-awaited Final Investment Decision (FID) from government stakeholders, officially clearing the way for construction. This major electricity interconnector will link Tasmania and Victoria, marking a big step forward in Australia’s clean energy future. For more details, visit the Marinus Link official website and TasNetworks.
Construction Timeline and Key Details
Construction for Stage One will begin in 2026 and finish by 2030. This first phase will create a second high-voltage direct current (HVDC) link across the Bass Strait, adding 1.5 GW of capacity through two 750 MW connections. Specifically, Stage One includes a 750 MW cable stretching between Burnie, Tasmania, and Hazelwood, Victoria. It features around 250 km of undersea cable and 90 km of underground cable. Together, these components will strengthen energy reliability and boost cross-state power sharing.
Industry Leaders and Major Components
Two global energy leaders will deliver key parts of Stage One:
- Prysmian Group, through Prysmian PowerLink, will supply and install the undersea and underground HVDC cables. Learn more about their advanced cable technology at Prysmian Group.
- Hitachi Energy will build the HVDC converter stations, which handle AC/DC power conversion. Explore their transmission solutions at Hitachi Energy.
Together, these companies will ensure reliable, efficient power connections between the two states.
Marinus Link Electricity Interconnector Tasmania Victoria Stage Two
Looking ahead, Stage Two aims to add another 750 MW of capacity. However, its progress will depend on market conditions, regulatory approval, and the expansion of dispatchable generation in Tasmania. Furthermore, this stage will align with the later phase of the North West Transmission Developments (NWTD). Although planning continues, contracts for Stage Two have not yet been awarded.
Strengthening Australia’s Renewable Energy Future
Importantly, the Marinus Link forms the core of the broader Project Marinus initiative. Alongside the existing Basslink interconnector, it will improve Tasmania’s energy infrastructure and support grid modernization. Powered by TasNetworks and Marinus Link Pty Ltd, the project will unlock Tasmania’s rich hydro and wind resources. In turn, it will help export clean power to mainland Australia, increase grid flexibility, and accelerate the nation’s energy transition goals.