Hydro Tasmania CEO Rachel Watson said the final ISP highlighted that the storage needed for Australia's energy system transition was even higher than previously predicted at 50 gigawatts, including 5 gigawatts of deep storage. 

"There's a misconception that batteries will replace long-duration storage. The ISP makes clear it's not an either-or proposition. 

"A reliable energy system needs a mix of technologies working together. 

"Batteries play an important role, but there is no battery on the market that can store energy for years at a time like we can with Gordon Dam or yingina / Great Lake. 

"As more renewable energy enters the system, dispatchable long-duration storage becomes increasingly valuable, and Tasmania is uniquely placed to provide it.

"Hydro Tasmania’s proposals for the redevelopment of Tarraleah and pumped hydro at Cethana would expand our capacity even further and the 2026 ISP indicates a strengthened case for investment." 

Ms Watson said it was encouraging to see Marinus Link and the North-West Transmission Development (together known as Project Marinus) recognised as essential projects. 

"Project Marinus will allow Hydro Tasmania to manage our water storages more strategically. 

"We can import surplus low-cost power from the mainland when there is excess solar and wind in the system, store more water in our dams, and generate when that energy is needed most.

"That creates greater value from Tasmania's existing hydro assets and helps ensure they continue delivering benefits for Tasmanians into the future." 

Ms Watson said the ISP confirmed Tasmania's hydropower system would remain a strategic economic asset for the state. "Tasmania already has one of the country's largest long-duration storage systems, built over generations. 

"Combined with Project Marinus, these assets can help support economic growth, attract investment, and unlock new opportunities for Tasmania. 

"The more value we can create from the assets Tasmanians already own, the greater the benefits that can flow back to Tasmania. 

"That's good for jobs, good for investment and good for Tasmania." 

Ends. 

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