Public Utilities Infrastructure
The attraction of business and industry to Ballarat is contingent on the provision of excellent public utilities infrastructure, particularly, in new developmental areas and estates. In this regard, Ballarat is very well serviced by reticulated natural gas, three (3) phase electricity and reticulated water. Furthermore, there are significant potable ground water supplies which can be accessed by bores in semi-rural and rural areas.
The majority of reticulated gas in Ballarat, is supplied from the Longford production facility in the Gippsland Basin, with other gas injected into the gas transmission system from the Otway Basin, and from storage facilities during peak demand periods. The highest user of natural gas is industry (49.3%), followed by residential users (36.3%) and commercial users (10.7%). There are several gas retailers which service the Ballarat area.
The majority of Ballarat’s electricity requirements are supplied from the Latrobe Valley via high-voltage electricity transmission system, and distributed via lower-voltage distribution networks. The highest level of demand is from industry.
Central Highlands Water supplies water to approximately 112,000 people within the Region, with a total of over 56,000 connected households and over 4,300 commercial connections. The bulk water supply volume for the Region is approximately 17,000 ML per annum. The Central Highlands Water Services is also responsible for sewer services and connections.