Tunnel boring machines (TBMs) excavating the northern section of Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) East will be powered by renewable energy supplied by First Nations-owned retailer Yuringa Energy.
Yuringa Energy, Australia’s only First Nations-owned energy retailer, will supply 100 per cent renewable electricity to the TBMs constructing the 10km twin tunnels between Glen Waverley and Box Hill.
Yuringa Energy Executive Chairman Daniel Briggs said the contract reflected both capability and the importance of sustainable First Nations businesses.
“Yuringa Energy is proudly First Nations owned and we are a leader in providing employment opportunities for First Nations people in our company, but this only happens by having profitable, financially sustainable First Nations businesses,” Mr Briggs said.
“It’s pleasing that Yuringa Energy came out on top through a very competitive tendering process.”
All TBMs for SRL East, along with future train operations, will be powered by renewable electricity, while all stations are targeting a 5-star Green Star rating.
A TBM launch site has been completed in Burwood, where the machines will begin tunnelling later this year. Crews are currently assembling the TBMs, constructing acoustic sheds to reduce construction impacts, and preparing excavation works for the underground station.
Construction of SRL East is continuing to ramp up, with up to 8000 direct local jobs expected to be created over the life of the project. More than 3000 workers are already engaged across delivery.
The project is also contributing to workforce development, with a focus on increasing participation among women, Aboriginal people, young people and people with disability.
Passenger services on SRL East are expected to commence in 2035.
