Storages feel brunt of below average rainfall

Hydro Tasmania’s storages continue to feel the brunt of below average rainfall just two months into the new financial year and despite good rains in the first half of August.

While inflows were above average for August, early September inflows are well below average and the indications are that this trend will continue for the month without significant spring falls.

This means Hydro Tasmania will continue to import significantly across Basslink as it continues to protect storages following a dry winter across the State.

Hydro Tasmania’s Manager Energy Resources David Marshall said while storages rose by 7.5 per cent in August to 27.1 percent full, this was 4.5 per cent lower than the same time last year. The rise was mostly a result of the heavy rains on August 8-11, which resulted in widespread flooding.

“The Pieman, Forth and Derwent rivers all experienced peak flows during that period that exceeded previously recorded maximum flows,” Mr Marshall said.

“Unfortunately, some of the benefit of the heavy rain was unavoidably lost when it spilled over the dams despite operating all the power stations at maximum output.

“There were some good inflows into our major storages at Great Lake and Gordon in August. The level of Great Lake increased by 3.9 per cent to 20.7 per cent full and Lake Gordon is now 20.3 per cent, an increase of 4.3 per cent.

“However, the outlook for September is so far not promising as inflows have been below average following low rainfall and falling river flows.

“We are now looking to some good spring rains in the coming months.”

Mr Marshall said Basslink would continue to play a valuable role in providing power to Tasmania in times of drought.

Further Information:
Hydro Tasmania - Helen Brain, 6230 5746