Hydro Tasmania has commenced major refurbishment works on a second generating unit at Poatina Power Station, advancing its long-term program to modernise one of Tasmania’s most significant hydropower assets.
The project forms part of a $200 million investment over the next decade to upgrade all six turbines at the 360MW station, extending their operational life and improving efficiency as Australia’s energy system continues to evolve.
Commissioned in 1965, Poatina is Hydro Tasmania’s second-largest hydropower station and remains a key contributor to the state’s renewable energy network. Located 150 metres underground in a vast artificial cavern, the station harnesses water from Yingina / Great Lake as it descends the steep escarpment of the Great Western Tiers.
Under the upgrade program, each generating unit will undergo extensive electrical and mechanical refurbishment. The station’s Pelton turbine runners are being replaced with newer, more advanced models supplied by Austrian manufacturer Andritz, while other components are being sourced from suppliers across Europe, New Zealand and Australia.
Rachel Watson, Chief Executive Officer at Hydro Tasmania, shared that the works represent the most significant upgrade undertaken at Poatina since the station was commissioned more than 60 years ago.
“Technology has advanced a lot in 60 years. New materials and technology will deliver more efficient and adaptable machines for Poatina,” Watson said.
According to Hydro Tasmania, the new turbine runners will use less water to generate the same amount of electricity, helping preserve valuable water resources within the company’s storages.
The upgrades are also expected to significantly reduce maintenance requirements. Historically, turbine runners required removal and reconditioning every six months. The new equipment is expected to operate for around 20 years before requiring major maintenance.
Watson said the refurbished turbines had been designed to better meet the demands of a modern electricity market, where generation assets are increasingly required to respond quickly to changing grid conditions.
“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,” she said.
Alongside the turbine upgrades, Hydro Tasmania is installing a new digital control system capable of providing real-time operational and condition monitoring data, supporting more efficient maintenance planning and asset management.
Hydro Tasmania’s engineering consultancy arm, Entura, has supported the project through grid studies, factory acceptance testing and specialist engineering services. Much of the refurbishment work is being completed at Hydro Tasmania’s Cambridge workshop in Hobart.
The second turbine upgrade is scheduled for completion in April 2027.
For more information about the Poatina Power Station, visit the Hydro Tasmania website.
