Central to Australia and New Zealand’s energy transition is the expansion and reinforcement of transmission infrastructure – the high voltage backbone that enables electricity to flow from remote renewable generation zones into residential and industrial centres.  

As renewable energy projects accelerate, the need for grid ready infrastructure that is reliable, safe and futureproof has never been more critical.

Ventia’s expanded capability in grid connections for transmission and distribution is delivering enhanced capacity, technical depth and delivery confidence at a time when the energy sector needs it most. 

“Our capability has always spanned transmission, distribution, substations, design, capital works and maintenance, but the recent strategic expansion adds a new dimension to what our Australian customers can access,” said Ventia Executive General Manager of Energy and Renewables, Agathe Gross.

Strengthening grid connections with integrated high voltage expertise

At the heart of this expansion is the integration of PowerNet Constructions – now operating as Ventia’s Australian substations team – into Ventia’s energy networks and renewables business. The Australian substations team brings deep expertise in electrical infrastructure and substation services, particularly across highvoltage transmission and distribution assets. Its strong focus on complex capital works for network service providers complements Ventia’s existing service offering.

Together, the combined capability enables Ventia to deliver grid connection projects endtoend, from concept and design through to construction, commissioning and ongoing operational support. This strategic addition broadens the scale, geographic reach and technical capability Ventia can offer, providing customers with a single partner capable of managing complexity across the full asset lifecycle. 

For industry stakeholders, this directly addresses one of the sector’s most pressing challenges: meeting surging demand for grid ready infrastructure while maintaining reliability and safety. ready infrastructure while maintaining reliability and safety. 

“We have taken the unique capabilities of the team and made them broader and more applicable to our business,” Gross said. 

“Our substations team are very skilled at knowing exactly how many people and how long it will take to do very specific parts of very specific jobs. Using that knowledge to provide precision and value to our clients is a key enabler in our expansion.” 

Building a future‑ready workforce for complex grid infrastructure

Operators are under pressure not only to connect more renewables but also to adapt existing infrastructure to manage bidirectional flows, voltage fluctuations and advanced protection schemes. Addressing these challenges requires a workforce that blends traditional electrical construction expertise with modern digital, automation and commissioning skills.

Resources and recruiting people is a challenge faced across the industry, so we’re exploring bringing people with different profiles into the electrician, fitter and mechanic space,” Gross said. “This includes those with industrial or base electrical skills who want to expand into testing and commissioning roles.”

A trusted partner for integrated transmission and grid connections

By strengthening its workforce and technical reach, Ventia provides network owners, developers and policymakers with a trusted partner capable of navigating complexity and delivering results. In doing so, Ventia is helping build a more resilient, efficient and decarbonised energy future.

“In essence, our expanded capability in grid connections for transmission and distribution is a strategic response to one of the electricity sector’s most critical needs,” Gross said.

 “It underscores the importance of integrated, highvoltage expertise at a time when transmission infrastructure is central to the energy transition.”

About Agathe