SA Power Networks celebrated the official opening of its new depot in Seaford on Tuesday 18 February, declaring it a significant milestone in supporting the growing needs of the southern suburbs and Fleurieu Peninsula.

The facility spans 25,000 square meters and replaces the 6,000 square metre Morphett Vale depot.

It aims to provide a modern and efficient base for crews to undertake critical projects and maintenance, catering for substantial growth in the region with development plans underway for new homes and business including plans for 1700 at Sellicks Beach, 600 at Noarlunga and 3600 at the old Port Stanvac refinery site.

SA Power Networks CEO Andrew Bills says this growth necessitates an upgraded infrastructure network to meet increasing demand. 

"This new depot is a significant investment in the future of our network in Adelaide’s south.

"It will improve our ability to deliver network projects and respond to network events, more efficiently, and ultimately ensure that we continue to strengthen our focus on network reliability in the Fleurieu region.” 

Mayor of the City of Onkaparinga, Moira Were AM, spoke at the official opening.

“With thousands of new homes earmarked across Onkaparinga, one of our key focuses has been ensuring and advocating for the right infrastructure to be in place at the right time,” she says.

“This new depot is a prime example of that, and we’re pleased it’ll help meet the needs of Onkaparinga’s growing suburbs for many years to come.”

Features of the new Seaford depot include:

• Eco-friendly design: Incorporating sustainable features such as 98kW of solar panels to offset energy consumption, a 75,000-litre stormwater storage tank to minimise environmental impact, and a retention basin to collect and filter surface runoff before discharge.
• Expanded operational capacity: Featuring a 2,000 sqm logistics warehouse, 10 undercover EWP bays, a 225 sqm store, and expanded meeting space.
• Enhanced crew facilities: Providing comfortable and well-equipped spaces for crews to rest and prepare for their shifts, including indoor and outdoor eating areas and a kitchen.
• Sustainable transport: Charging facilities for 2 EVs, with the capacity to expand to up to 16.
• Improved safety features: Incorporating the latest safety measures, including CCTV and electric fencing, to protect our crews and the community.

“The opening of this depot marks a significant milestone in our ongoing investment in South Australia’s electricity network. It reflects our commitment to providing a reliable and resilient electricity supply to support the growth and prosperity of this region,” Mr Bills says.

City of Onkaparinga Mayor Moira Were and SA Power Networks CEO Andrew Bills officially open the new Seaford depot. Picture by Frankie the Creative.