25 November 2024
Commissioned in 1968, Rowallan Power Station is just one of eight power stations that make up the Mersey-Forth hydropower scheme. “The output of the machine is 10.5 MW, but it is an important asset as it allows water to flow from the Rowallan Dam to feed the remaining Mersey Forth scheme that generates up to 290MW."
Rowallan Power Station was due for a refurbishment as part of our capital works program, with Scott and the outage team completely stripping down the machine to upgrade all the components inside. Some of these components were the original pieces of equipment from the 1960s!
This project represents more than just maintenance! It’s an extensive overhaul that involves machining the spiral case, replacing physical controls, and upgrading electrical control panels. In layman’s terms, almost every part of the power station has been refurbished as part of this ongoing project. Scott oversees this complex process with meticulous planning and coordination. "I ensure that everything is in place for a seamless upgrade,” says Scott.
“Because the scope of Rowallan’s refurbishment has been so broad, we engaged an ultra-specialist workforce, including specialists in laser surveying, wire concrete cutting, ultra-high pressure concrete demolition, specialist large diameter machinists, turbine commissioners… the list goes on.”
As Site Manager, Scott is the eyes and ears of the refurbishment across all activities: from managing logistics, keeping a watchful eye over the team’s safety, or analysing how the outage (and power station ongoing) interacts with the natural environment around them.
For Scott, managing the Rowallan site during this outage has been a transformative experience. "The learning and development of my own skills and abilities have grown significantly during this project."
“I love what I do because the job has great diversity, but ultimately it is the sense of accomplishment when completing a machine modernisation and returning it to service. The amount of work completed by the team is enormous, and we are very lucky to get the chance to work on assets that are seldom seen in the public eye. Having an intimate understanding of the great network of hydro turbines we have is a unique experience.”
At Hydro Tasmania, it’s not just about refurbishing machines, but investing in the future of renewable energy. The Rowallan Power Station outage stands as a reminder of the incredible work being done by passionate individuals like Scott and his team, paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future for Tasmania!
Interested in a role like Scott’s? Join our team and build a rewarding career in renewable energy. Visit www.hydro.com.au/careers!
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