The Project's Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is available for public comment and input is welcomed!

The Tarraleah hydropower scheme is in central Tasmania. It’s one of state’s oldest schemes built progressively since the mid-1930s. That makes some parts more than 80 years old. Working alongside our clever colleagues at Entura, we’ve carefully examined options for Tarraleah’s future.

We determined that fully redeveloping the scheme would provide the most value to Tasmania. This would see Tarraleah generate more clean energy to help meet the forecast growth in energy demand and help power the state for generations to come. Plus, it will be part of the solution for Australia’s decarbonisation challenge and transition away from fossil fuel.

Assessing potential impacts

Our specialist staff across Hydro Tasmania and Entura have completed a comprehensive analysis of the potential environmental impacts and importantly, how we plan to mitigate them. 

Our team has been talking with the community, businesses and interest groups, which gives us valuable insights into what the community values in the area. 

Our CEO Rachel Watson said that our goal is to avoid impacts where we can. 

“Because that is not always possible, we plan to have rigorous monitoring and management programs in place and offsets where impacts are unavoidable,” Ms Watson said.

“I am pleased that overall, our EIS has shown that the project could be undertaken with minimal impacts on the environment and community and deliver positive social and community outcomes.”

Chatting with the community

The public is encouraged to review the documents, have their say and come along to community activities where the team is available to chat. Drop-in sessions are being hosted in the Tarraleah area which is a great chance to talk with our team.

Gina and Holly at Hamilton Show in March, chatting with locals about the project

Project status

The Tarraleah Scheme has given more than 85 years of faithful service, but it is reaching the end of its operational life. A redeveloped Tarraleah is an important part of meeting future energy demand. It will deliver more energy for Tasmania, create hundreds of jobs and boost regional economies.

The Tarraleah project has not yet reached a Final Investment Decision. It will require environmental and planning approvals as well as approval by the Tasmanian Parliament.