All of the station’s machines will go through electrical and mechanical refurbishments and have their Pelton turbine upgraded to a newer model from Austrian company Andritz, with other parts coming from Europe, New Zealand and Australia.

Officially opened in 1965, Poatina Power Station is Hydro Tasmania’s second biggest hydropower station with a generating capacity of 360MW.

It is located in a massive artificial cavern 150m underground and makes use of the steep drop from Yingina / Great Lake down the face of the Great Western Tiers.

Hydro Tasmania CEO Rachel Watson said this was the largest upgrade of Poatina since it was commissioned more than six decades ago.

“Technology has advanced a lot in 60 years. New materials and technology will deliver more efficient and adaptable machines for Poatina,” said Ms Watson.

“The new turbine runners will use less water to produce the same amount of energy, helping us to keep more water in our storages.

“We’re expecting to get about 20 years of runtime from the new runners without having to do any heavy maintenance.”

Previously, the turbine runners would have to be taken out and reconditioned every six months.

The original turbines were also designed for more static operating conditions, while the new machines are better suited to the changing demands of today’s energy market.

“The new turbines have been built for the new market. They’re fast and adaptable, which gives us much more flexibility in operating our fleet,” Ms Watson said.

The control system will also be upgraded and will provide real-time data on how the machine is functioning for future maintenance planning.

“The brain – how the machine is controlled – is completely different, with a new electronic system that controls the machine and feeds back information on its condition,” Ms Watson said.

Hydro Tasmania’s consulting arm Entura has been involved in many aspects of the upgrade, including grid studies, factory acceptance testing and specialist engineering support that underpinned major design and refurbishment activities.

Hydro Tasmania also performs the removal and installation of all the upgraded parts, including the 130-tonne rotor.

Most of the refurbishments for the upgrades are being done in Hobart at Hydro Tasmania’s Cambridge workshop, working with specialised machines and equipment.

The upgrade of the second turbine is expected to be complete in April 2027.

Media enquiries :+61 409 722 359 / media@hydro.com.au