Tarong Power Station to save more water

Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson told State Parliament today that Tarong Power Station, the largest of south east Queensland’s power stations, would reduce its electricity generation to save even more water.

Minister Wilson said Tarong Energy advised the market this morning that they would reduce generation from 30 March.

“This is about striking the right balance between the need to provide a secure and reliable electricity supply and meeting the water needs of the people of south east Queensland – they’re both vital,” Mr Wilson said.

“I’m advised that under these new measures and despite the drought, the bulk electricity supply to homes and businesses in south east Queensland will remain secure,”

“Since January, Tarong Power station reduced its electricity generation by 25% to save water. Today, they are taking further action and will reduce generation by a further 45%.

“Tarong Energy has advised that they will be able to conserve about 22,000 megalitres over 15 months by operating two units at part load and temporarily taking two units off-line from the end of March,” Mr Wilson said.

“This is on top of water saving measures they’ve already initiated since Tarong Power Station modified its generation in January this year.

“Advice from the government taskforce, which includes Powerlink, is that these actions will provide sufficient supply options from southern Queensland power stations, Central Queensland and the national grid to reliably meet the bulk power requirements of customers in south east Queensland.

“We’ve also consulted with NEMMCO, the national organisation that oversees power system security,” he said.

“Tarong Power Station is looking long term and has advised that jobs will be secure.

“They will use this opportunity to bring about a significant maintenance schedule to prepare the plant for full operation. Tarong Energy advises that the revised work program may see the need for more contractors to perform specialised jobs,” he said.

“Tarong power station will closely monitor the new generating profile, and projections will be upgraded in light of actual water consumption, rainfall and inflows. They’ve advised that further adjustments may be made on that basis,” he said.

The Minister said that today’s announcement complements the restrictions accepted by Tarong North and Swanbank power stations last week.

“The worsening drought has changed the way we lead our everyday lives. We’re all conscious of the need to preserve water and we’re all taking steps, some big, some small.

“Importantly, we’re all working together to meet the challenges ahead,” he said.

Media Inquiries: Ellen McIntyre 3225 1819