Hydro Tasmania CEO Rachel Watson said the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) was now available for public comment and input was welcomed. 

“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,” Ms Watson said. 

“Through talking with the community, businesses and interest groups, we’ve also gained valuable insights into what the community values in the area. 

“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. 

“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.” 

Ms Watson encouraged the public to review the documents, have their say and come along to community activities where the team would be available to chat. 

“We are hosting drop-in sessions in the Tarraleah area which is a great chance to talk with our team.” 

The Tarraleah Scheme has given more than 85 years of faithful service, but it is reaching the end of its operational life. 

Ms Watson said that the proposal is to fully redevelop the scheme. 

“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.” 

Project status 

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.