Hunter Water has finalized its renewable energy project at the Balickera Water Pump Station, marking the initiation of electricity generation from its largest solar PV installation.
This system is designed to power the station’s sizable pumps and essential water supply infrastructure.
The innovative Balickera solar farm, boasting a capacity of 3.1MW, elevates Hunter Water’s total renewable energy output to over 6 megawatts (MW). This achievement represents a key milestone in Hunter Water’s dedication to sustainability and its efforts to lower its carbon emissions.
Darren Cleary, Managing Director of Hunter Water, stated that the initiative is projected to yield significant annual savings, estimated at around $700,000 each year.
“Electricity consumption in our operational area constitutes one of Hunter Water’s major costs, representing up to 10% of our overall expenses. Harnessing solar energy is one of several strategies we are exploring to mitigate these costs and reduce carbon emissions.
“This initiative not only significantly lowers our operational expenditures but also plays a crucial role in minimizing our environmental footprint, highlighting our commitment to fostering a sustainable future for the Lower Hunter region.
“By integrating directly with Hunter Water’s existing high voltage transmission network, the solar farm’s output will power essential facilities such as the Grahamstown Water Treatment Plant and Tomago borefields,” Mr. Cleary explained.
The installation features about 5,500 ground-mounted solar panels arranged in two sections flanking the Balickera Canal, covering three hectares adjacent to the Balickera Pump Station.
To facilitate the solar array, Hunter Water conducted extensive environmental rehabilitation, planting over 1,500 trees, shrubs, and ground cover to compensate for the removal of approximately 70 trees and to lessen the visual impact of the installation.
An additional 1,500 plants and trees are scheduled for planting in September, ensuring the project positively influences the local ecosystem.
“Environmental sustainability is fundamental to our operations. We have taken significant steps to minimize the project’s impact, ensuring we contribute positively to the environment through responsible practices,” Mr. Cleary noted.
Following the tree removal, logs were relocated to a nearby environmental restoration area to provide future habitat for native wildlife. The remaining vegetation was mulched and repurposed for landscaping, with surplus mulch stored for later use.
Additionally, a small park is being recreated next to the solar array, offering a space for visitors and tour groups to enjoy.
“This initiative transcends renewable energy; it aims to enrich our community and environment. We are thrilled to invite visitors to the new park and share the benefits of this substantial investment with the wider community.”
Alongside this project, Hunter Water is implementing an extra 450kW of solar energy across three locations in Shortland, Dungog, and North Lambton, expected to be operational by early 2025. Plans are also underway for a 450kW solar site and a 300kW battery energy storage system in Cessnock.
Source :Hunter Water
