The fourth and final link in the Kiewa Valley Hydroelectric Scheme, the Bogong Hydro Power Project adds another 140 megawatts to the existing 241 megawatts of generating capacity.

The 28,000 megalitre capacity Rocky Valley Reservoir is the storage reservoir for the water that powers the entire hydro scheme, currently made up of a sequence of three existing power stations that descend from Falls Creek and down the Kiewa Valley, in the Bogong region of Victoria’s Alpine National Park.

The Bogong project harnesses the water supply already used by these three existing power stations, to produce additional power for periods of high demand. The additional power is created by diverting flow from the McKay Creek Power Station at peak times via a

7 kilometre tunnel running under the mountains of the National Park, and connecting to the newly constructed Bogong Power Station, positioned adjacent to Junction Dam.

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“The project is unique because it delivers clean energy without the need for new dams or new water by reusing water already used by the McKay Creek Power Station,” said Victorian Premier John Brumby at the official opening of the project.

“The design has ensured that this project has been great for the economy and great for the environment, producing zero emissions energy while conserving our valuable water resources.”

Owned by AGL Southern Hydro, the scheme was built over a period of more than 20 years, with construction commencing in the late 1930s. After the works were interrupted by World War II, the system was completed in 1961.

More than 40 years later, AGL Southern Hydro awarded a $160 million contract to McConnell Dowell in for the design and construction of a new tunnel connecting the McKay Creek Power Station with the proposed Bogong Power Station, along with the associated infrastructure.

For the company, the project was an important step in getting a foothold in the hydro market, given the growing importance of environmentally sustainable operations, and the increase in demand for renewable energy sources.

“For McConnell Dowell to have this almost as a signature project, so to speak, it’s very important for us as a company,” said McConnell Dowell Project Manager Paul Thomas.