Independent Member for Alfred Cove Dr Janet Woollard is encouraging the community to make submissions towards an Economic Regulation Authority (ERA) review of the costs and benefits of the State Underground Power Program (SUPP).

"The review by the ERA presents another opportunity for community members to have their say about wanting underground power in their suburbs," said Dr Woollard.

"The ERA will undertake a review of the economic and non-economic costs and benefits of the SUPP with the aim of determining if the benefits matches or is greater than the costs. It is also expected to report on the appropriate share of funding for the SUPP between the State Government, the individual household and Western Power.

"The ERA is inviting public submissions and I intend to make one on behalf of the Alfred Cove Electorate community who has indicated their support for underground power."        

"I encourage those who would like the continuation and expansion of the SUPP to read the paper and make a submission to the ERA," said Dr Woollard.

"Submissions can address the issues outlined in the ERA paper or any other matters relevant to the undergrounding of power lines.

"In addition, the community is invited to contact my Electorate Office if they are unable to make a personal submission but would still like to have their views represented."

Submissions must be forwarded by 4pm on Friday, 6 August 2010 and can be made via:

a. Email at publicsubmissions@erawa.com.au;

b. Fax to 9213 1999; or

c. Post addressed to: Inquiry into State Underground Power Program Cost Benefit Study, Economic Regulation Authority, PO Box 8469, Perth Business Centre, Perth WA 6849

Members of the community are invited to contact Dr Woollard’s Electorate Office to:

a. Obtain printed copies of the ERA issues paper; and/or

b. Provide their views for inclusion in Dr Woollard’s submission to the ERA.