ANOTHER round of surveys along the VNI West corridor started last month.
Transmission Company Victoria told  stakeholders on Monday that geotechnical surveys would determine geological conditions across the corridor.
“The results of these surveys will help to inform the ongoing planning and approvals process for the project, including work underway to refine the draft corridor to a preferred easement around 100-metre wide by the third quarter of 2024,” the TCV update said.
“Field surveys will continue in the coming months, including ecological and geological studies. These will largely occur on public land, following consultation with relevant authorities such as DEECA, local councils and VicRoads.
Meanwhile, TCV is waiting for a decision on starting an environmental effects statement.
A spokesperson said: “TCV has referred the VNI West project to the Victorian Minister for Planning on February 6 to determine whether an environment effects Statement will be required for the project.  
“TCV is awaiting a decision from the Minister regarding the EES, continuing planned survey works across the corridor to assess environmental and geological features that will help to shape the best route refinement for the project.
TCV has told its community reference group members that an application for a transmission licence for VNI West had been drafted.
“A draft was submitted earlier in the year. A revised application is in progress, responding to detailed comments, revised corridor and release of Land Access Guidelines. The new application will be submitted once it is finalised by TCV,” according to reference group minutes.