The wait for underground power in Perth's north is a long and arduous journey, with residents facing a potential 25-year wait despite the significant financial barriers. The estimated $243 million bill for moving powerlines underground in the City of Wanneroo is a staggering amount, and the report highlights the inequitable standard of infrastructure across the city. The current focus on inner metropolitan suburbs by Western Power's targeted underground power program means that outer suburbs like Wanneroo will have to wait decades before any financial implications are even considered. This disparity in infrastructure quality is a pressing issue, with overhead power supply experiencing more frequent disruptions and outages, especially during extreme weather events. The report recommends that the council support the mayor and administration in advocating for Western Power to bring forward underground power projects, and a business case and cost analysis into the feasibility of the city funding these projects is also recommended. The recommendations will be voted on by the council at its next meeting on June 23, and the future of Perth's north is left hanging in the balance. This is a fight worth having, and the council must prioritize the needs of its residents to ensure a fair and equitable standard of power infrastructure across the city.
