VNI West given an official two year delay, with expected completion date pushed back to late 2030

In a media release published yesterday, the delivery company for VNI West announced an updated construction timeline for the project, pushing back completion for the project from 2028 to late 2030.

The delivery company for the project cites that extended environmental, geotechnical and cultural assessments, landholder engagement, and access/easement arrangements were reasons for the extended timeline. The statement reads:

Transmission Company Victoria (TCV) has today advised landholders that the expected completion date for the VNI West transmission project is shifting from 2028 to late 2030.
TCV Spokesperson, Claire Cass, said the updated timeline reflects revised planning, design and construction assumptions for one of Victoria’s most significant energy infrastructure projects.

“The new construction completion target allows more time for detailed environmental, geotechnical and cultural assessments, along with more meaningful landholder engagement on access and easement arrangements,” Ms Cass said.

“We know this updated timeline may be frustrating, but we’re committed to working with landholders respectfully and providing the support they need to consider what is best for them, their properties, and farming or business operations”

“While the timeline has shifted, the critical purpose of VNI West remains the same – to deliver the infrastructure needed to keep Victoria’s lights on, and help put downward pressure on electricity prices” she said.

The AEMO who uniquely serve as the transmission system planner for Victoria, created TCV as a separate entity to progress the VNI West project. The announcement comes roughly one month out from the release of the 2025 Electricity Statement of Opportunities (ESOO).