Electricity network works resume in Yarraville and Footscray

Energy infrastructure company Jemena has today announced it will resume works in Yarraville, Footscray, and surrounding suburbs to help maintain a safe and reliable electricity network across north-west Melbourne ahead of summer 2026-27.

The works program includes:

• • Recommencement of routine maintenance works: including network-security-related works, routine connections, metering upgrades/installations, and the replacement of end-of-life power poles with comparable poles.
  • Critical project works at the Footscray Zone Substation which will replace ageing infrastructure at the substation in order to shore up energy supply to critical community services operating in the local area.  

 A proposed pole replacement program – which would see large power poles installed in parts of Yarraville and West Footscray – remains paused. 

Speaking about the works, Jemena spokesperson Michael Pintabona said: 

“This program of works is critical to ensuring the safe and reliable supply of electricity for homes, businesses, and community services across north-west Melbourne. Ensuring this work is done means the network will be well-placed to manage increased demand over the peak summer season.” 

“During the works period, we expect some noise and construction activity across parts of Yarraville and surrounding areas, as well as traffic diversions." 

“Our teams will be on the ground meeting with residents in the area to explain the works and what it means for them. Additionally, if a customer's power supply is likely to be impacted, we will contact them in advance of any outages directly." 

Jemena continues to engage with the local community

Mr Pintabona said Jemena has commenced engagement activities with customers and stakeholders across Yarraville, Footscray, and West Footscray after it paused a separate pole replacement program earlier this month.

“The replacement of 11-metre power poles with larger poles remains paused as we take the time needed to engage with our customers in the area. Our teams will be connecting directly with customers over the coming weeks on this matter.” 

For more information about Jemena’s outage program visit the Planned Outages page on the Jemena website: www.jemena.com.au/outages

Jemena media: 1300 331 239