Wivenhoe Hydroelectric— 500 MW Hydroelectric
Wivenhoe Hydroelectric is a prominent hydroelectric power generation facility located in Australia, specifically at coordinates -27.3722, 152.6320. With a robust capacity of 500 MW, this power plant plays an integral role in the energy landscape of Queensland, providing reliable and renewable energy to the grid. Owned and operated by CS Energy, Wivenhoe has been a cornerstone of the region's energy infrastructure, supporting not only peak demand but also contributing to the overall stability and sustainability of the energy supply in Australia. The technology utilized at Wivenhoe is based on hydroelectric principles, harnessing the kinetic energy of flowing water to generate electricity. This method of energy generation is crucial in Australia’s shift towards a more sustainable energy mix, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions. The plant's strategic location in the Brisbane River catchment area allows it to harness local water resources effectively, ensuring optimal operational performance. As part of the broader energy policy context in Australia, Wivenhoe aligns with national objectives to increase renewable energy capacity and enhance energy security. Its ability to provide essential peaking power makes it a vital asset for the Queensland grid, especially during periods of high electricity demand. The Wivenhoe Hydroelectric power plant exemplifies the advantages of integrating renewable technologies into the energy matrix, ultimately supporting Australia’s commitment to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.
42 years old
Australia, Oceania
- 52. largest of 678 plants in Australia
- #4,581 worldwide by installed capacity
- #721 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
- 0.32% of the installed capacity of Australia
42 years in operation
Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years
CS Energy operates 8 plants totalling 5,024 MW
27 plants within 100 km, 5,419 MW combined
Location
Zero Direct Emissions
Wivenhoe Hydroelectric is a hydro power plant producing approximately 1752 GWh of clean electricity per year with zero direct CO₂ emissions during operation.
Lifecycle emissions: ~24 g CO₂/kWh (manufacturing, transport, decommissioning)
Technical Details
- Primary Fuel Type
- Hydro
- Energy Source
- Renewable
- Country
Australia- Continent
- Oceania
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
Wivenhoe Hydroelectric Power Plant: A Vital Component of Australia's Renewable Energy Landscape
Wivenhoe Hydroelectric Power Plant, located in Queensland, Australia, stands as a significant contributor to the country's energy sector, boasting a generation capacity of 500 megawatts (MW). Owned and operated by CS Energy, the facility plays a crucial role in providing reliable and renewable electricity to the national grid, particularly during peak demand periods. As a hydroelectric power plant, Wivenhoe harnesses the kinetic energy of flowing water to generate electricity, utilizing the natural water flow of the Wivenhoe Dam on the Brisbane River.
The technical workings of hydroelectric power involve the conversion of potential energy stored in water at height into mechanical energy through turbines. In the case of Wivenhoe, the facility features two main components: a pumped-storage hydroelectric system and a conventional hydroelectric generation system. The pumped-storage aspect allows the plant to store energy by pumping water uphill to a reservoir during low demand periods, which can then be released to generate electricity during high demand. This dual capability enhances the reliability and flexibility of the power supply, making Wivenhoe an essential asset in balancing supply and demand in the grid.
In terms of environmental impact, hydroelectric power is generally considered one of the cleaner forms of energy, as it produces no direct greenhouse gas emissions during operation. However, it is essential to acknowledge that the construction of large dams and reservoirs can lead to ecological changes, including alterations to local habitats and wildlife displacement. At Wivenhoe, efforts have been made to mitigate these impacts through environmental management strategies, including maintaining water quality and supporting local biodiversity initiatives.
The regional significance of Wivenhoe Hydroelectric extends beyond its immediate power generation capabilities. It plays a vital role in Queensland's energy landscape by providing stability to the electricity supply, particularly in times of drought or reduced capacity from other energy sources. Furthermore, the plant supports the shift towards renewable energy in Australia, aligning with national and state-level goals for reducing carbon emissions and increasing the share of renewables in the energy mix.
In summary, Wivenhoe Hydroelectric Power Plant exemplifies the potential of hydroelectric energy in Australia, contributing to energy security, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. Its advanced technology and strategic operational capabilities make it a cornerstone of Queensland's energy infrastructure and a model for future renewable energy projects across the nation.
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