Some of Tasmania’s most iconic energy assets will be open to the public this month.

Hydro Tasmania is Australia’s largest producer of renewable energy, with assets worth more than $5 billion and 30 hydropower stations in operation around the state. This weekend marks the start of a short series of power station open days, an activity that will be repeated annually.

“For more than 100 years Hydro Tasmania has been harnessing natural energy to power Tasmanian homes and businesses,” said Andrew Hickman, Manager Major Works. 

“We had an overwhelming response from communities when we opened up six of our power stations during our centenary celebrations in 2014. In response, we have decided to open a small number of power stations to the public each year. This year we will open three power stations during October and November.

“This is a rare opportunity to see what the inside of a hydropower station looks like. Tours will be conducted by Hydro Tasmania employees and will provide insights into how we manage these large assets to ensure safe, reliable supply of renewable energy.”

Also this weekend, Musselroe Wind Farm will host an open day, as part of Australian Wind Farm Open Day. The 168MW Musselroe Wind Farm is operated under a joint venture between Shenhua Clean Energy (SCE) and Hydro Tasmania (Woolnorth Wind Farm Holdings).

“Musselroe Wind Farm generates enough energy to supply the needs of up to 50 000 homes, equivalent to the residential power needs of Burnie and Devonport combined,” said Stephen Ross, General Manager of Woolnorth Wind Farm Holdings.

“More importantly, Musselroe is an important part of the culture and economy of the local region. This is a great opportunity for people to get up close to a wind farm in their own backyard.

“We’ve got some of the best wind resources in the world right here in Tasmania, and we encourage people to come along and learn how we turn that wind into clean energy.”

Ends.

Released by Samantha Meyer, (03) 6230 5746.

Hydro Tasmania power station tour dates

·         Tungatinah Power Station tour - Saturday 10 October, 10am – 2pm

·         Paloona Power Station tour - Saturday 24 October, 10am – 2pm

·         Poatina Power Station tour - Saturday 14 November, 10am – 2pm

For detailed information, including tour times, directions and clothing requirements, please visit

http://www.hydro.com.au/community/power-station-tours

Australian wind farm open day

On 11 October 2015, wind farms across Australia will throw open their gates to the public through a range of fun and informative open day events.

More information is available on the website of the Clean Energy Council http://www.cleanenergycouncil.org.au/events/CEC-Endorsed-Events/wind-farm-open-day.html