Hydro Tasmania opened its doors to the public today (Saturday), giving hundreds of Tasmanians the chance to explore the inner workings of the iconic Tarraleah Power Station. 

Station tours embarked from nearby Tarraleah Village, where a capacity crowd enjoyed games, treasure hunts and live music, celebrating the Scheme’s vibrant past and bright future. 

Hydro Tasmania’s Executive General Manager of People, Culture and Engagement Ruth Groom said the event was a fantastic opportunity to welcome Tasmanians in and showcase the importance of renewable energy in shaping the state’s future.  

“Tasmanians are our owners, and we love to welcome our communities to see behind the scenes,” Ms Groom said. 

“People learn how our power stations work, hear from the passionate people who operate them, and better understand how we harness water to generate clean, reliable energy. 

“Tarraleah is one of our oldest schemes and is reaching the end of its operational life. But it’s a bright part of our renewable energy future. 

“Hydro Tasmania is proposing a major redevelopment, so Tarraleah will be ready to help meet the growing demand for energy and power in the state for generations to come.”  

Kerrilee Jameson travelled from Devonport and said, “I’d seen it advertised and it looked like a lot of fun. My father was one of the original builders…so much still original and so much different,” she said.

“We take for granted where our electricity comes from, but actually going to witness it first-hand and seeing the incredible sheer scale and size that Hydro has out here is absolutely amazing,” said Ebony Lowry who attended the open day with her family. 

Commissioned in 1938, Tarraleah Power Station was built in art deco style and is heritage listed. In 2023, Hydro Tasmania bought back the old Tarraleah Village to house workers for the current upgrades at Lake King William and for the future redevelopment workforce.  

The proposed redevelopment of Tarraleah would increase peak capacity from 90MW to 190MW and deliver 30 percent more energy from the same amount of water. 

“We want Tasmanians to feel connected to their energy system and proud of the role hydropower plays in making our state a leader in renewable energy,” said Ms Groom.

 Ends. 

Released for Hydro Tasmania by Kelly McNeill / 0409 722 359 / media@hydro.com.au