Nieterana Mini-Hydro

Grid-connected, distributed generation, renewable
Location: Butlers Gorge, TAS

The site

The Nieterana mini-hydro power station is located at Butlers Gorge on the upper reaches of the Derwent River, adjacent to the existing 12 MW Butlers Gorge Power Station. The mini-hydro power station harnesses an existing water supply from Lake King William as it is released into a canal system which forms a part of the head works, and is a water source for the downstream Tarraleah Power Station.

"Hydro energy has always been important for Tasmania - this new proposal is enabling the water in the headworks of an existing power station at Tarraleah to be used, allowing an increase in that old station's capacity without a huge increase of infrastructure.

The project will ensure greater power generation from the same body of water, a very worthwhile goal from any such project, and proves that Tasmania is once again at the forefront of sustainable energy development."
Dick Adams MP, Federal Member for Lyons

Technology

The 2.2 MW "horizontal" Francis turbine operates at 375 RPM, has a capacity of 8.5 cumecs and a 29 meter Rated Head. The 3 phase generator operates at 375 RPM, 50 Hz, 2.44 MVA, 11 kV and 0.9 PF.

Energy purchase and supply

The plant is expected to produce about 8.2 GWh of electricity per annum. Power generated from the project is sold to the pool as part of Hydro Tasmania generation. The mini hydro is connected to the existing 11/110 kV switchyard at Butlers Gorge through a short 11 kV transmission line. The 110 kV Network is owned by Transend.

Electricity is generated via a non-scheduled market generator dispatched outside of the bidding process. Its intermittent mode of operation depends on the level of Lake King William. The generator is accredited under the Green Power Scheme and accreditation for RECs has been applied for.

Environmental impact

The project is expected to save approximately 5,800 tonnes per annum of greenhouse gas emissions. This is equivalent to removing approximately 1350 cars from the road per annum.