GenusPlus Group to construct 98 km overhead transmission line for Fortescue

GenusPlus Group Ltd says it has secured Construction of Civils and Lines contracts with a value of circa-A$30 million ($21.5 million) with Pilbara Energy Company Pty Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Fortescue Metals Group Ltd.

The contracts relate to the construction of a 98 km, 220 kV single circuit overhead transmission line for the project.

GenusPlus’ Managing Director, David Riches, said: “It is a compliment to the team and recognition for GenusPlus that Fortescue has awarded our business with further contracts for the next stage of the Pilbara Transmission Project.

“We look forward to further growing our relationship with Fortescue on this significant project.”

The Pilbara Transmission Project consists of 275 km of high voltage transmission lines connecting Fortescue’s mine sites.

GenusPlus will increase its capability in transmission line construction with the acquisition of additional specialised drilling equipment that is used to create the footing of transmission towers providing the opportunity for GenusPlus to expand its internal drilling capability, it said. The cost of the equipment is approximately A$6 million and will be debt-funded through existing equipment finance facilities.

Riches said: “Internalising the drilling services that relate directly to the construction of powerlines will provide GenusPlus with added flexibility and control of the critical path of construction timelines.”