THE Bassendean North underground power project is a step closer, with the town entering a co-funding agreement with Western Power to deliver the project.

The project forms part of Western Power’s targeted underground power program (TUPP), which identifies priority areas for underground power based on the condition of ageing overhead infrastructure.

Town of Bassendean Mayor Kath Hamilton said the agreement reached with Western Power was a significant milestone for Bassendean North and great news for the community.

“Underground power is a once-in-a-generation infrastructure upgrade that will improve the reliability of power supply, reduce storm-related outages and enhance the look and function of local streets,” she said.

“It also supports the future needs of our community, including increased tree canopy, new street lighting and capacity for new technologies.

“Property values also tend to increase for properties connected to underground power.”

According to Western Power, the process for undergrounding power for an existing home is to dig a hole, install the cables and provide a green dome which will act as the new connection to the power grid.

The green dome will be connected to the meter box before Western Power switches power from the poles to the new dome.

Without needing to compete with power poles, trees are given more space to grow and flourish.

The more enclosed build and form factor benefits of the green dome also make power less likely to be affected by weather changes and removing power poles also decreases risk of car collisions.

The town first consulted with property owners and residents in the Bassendean North area in 2022 to gauge community interest in the project, with the majority of residents being supportive.

Council subsequently resolved to enter into a memorandum of understanding with Western Power in December 2022.

While the project was originally expected to start earlier, Western Power experienced delays while appointing a contractor.

Those issues have now been resolved, design work has been finalised, and construction is currently forecast to begin in October 2026, continuing for approximately 11 months.

The cost of the project is shared between Western Power, the state government and property owners and detailed financial modelling is currently being finalised.

The Town of Bassendean said it will not pass on any service charges to affected property owners in the 2026/27 financial year while it developed payment plans and engaged with property owners.

Further information on the proposed service charge recovery model will be considered by council separately at a future council meeting.

Property-specific information, including details about individual connections, will be provided directly to affected owners and residents in coming months.

Two further underground power projects are earmarked for Bassendean East and Bassendean West in future years, with both in the scoping stage.

Further information is available at bassendean.wa.gov.au/undergroundpower26