Energising Tasmania’s renewable energy ambitions

19 October 2022

Hydro Tasmania welcomes today’s announcement of a new partnership between the Tasmanian and Federal Government to back progressing Tasmania’s renewable energy ambitions through Marinus Link and Battery of the Nation.

Tasmania has abundant, low-cost wind resources and hydropower potential, which can be unlocked through the new 1500MW Marinus Link interconnector and CEO Ian Brooksbank welcomed the strong Government support.

Mr Brooksbank said that the announcement of low-cost financing through the Rewiring the Nation plan provided confidence and certainty to Hydro Tasmania for its Battery of the Nation vision to maximise Tasmania’s existing hydropower capacity and add pumped hydro.

“Marinus Link will open up even greater two-way market access, stimulating renewable energy investment in Tasmania including our hydropower projects.

Battery of the Nation will bring an additional 1500 MW of on-demand capacity into the national market – that means it’s available at the ‘flick of the switch’.

“The first 750MW Marinus Link cable will unlock flexibility in our existing hydropower system to provide the on-demand back-up needed. It also opens up potential for capacity upgrades in our assets including the Tarraleah scheme and the West Coast stations,” he said.

“The second 750MW cable creates the opportunity to develop pumped hydro - a 750MW, 20-hour, cost-competitive, long-duration storage opportunity at Lake Cethana.”

With more interconnection, new wind projects and increased hydropower capacity, Tasmania will produce more than enough renewable energy to power Tasmanian homes, businesses, and industries plus it can export the extra power to support a clean energy future for Australia.

“Benefits will flow back to Tasmania through access to affordable power, economic investment, creation of much needed jobs, attraction of new business, and increased profitability for Hydro Tasmania which brings revenue to the state government to support vital infrastructure and services,” Mr Brooksbank said.

“Tasmanians can be proud that we are doing our bit to address climate change, while also reaping the benefits of lower power prices, greater economic returns to the state, and the jobs and investment that will help grow our economy for the future.”

Ends.

Released for Hydro Tasmania by Lyn Southon / 0409 722 359 / media@hydro.com.au

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