Contracts have been signed for Wannon Water’s $4.2 million wind generation project that will provide all the power for its sewage and water treatment facilities in Portland.
The project is the latest step in Wannon Water’s pledge to reduce carbon emissions by 40 per cent by the year 2025 and achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Once commissioned, the generator will contribute significantly towards Portland achieving zero-net emissions from local renewable power generation for its water and sewage treatment systems.
Managing Director, Andrew Jeffers, said the capital cost would be paid back within 10 years through reduced energy bills.
“Over the life of the asset, the total payback is forecast to be substantial, resulting in future savings for our customers.
“We also recognise the importance of supporting regional economic growth and prosperity. The project therefore includes input from at least one local supplier.”
German company Enercon won the $2.1 million contract for the supply and delivery of the innovative gearbox-less E48 generator that will be located at the sewage treatment plant site in Olearia Road.
Portland company Keppel Prince has been sub-contracted to manufacture the tower using local steel. In another win for locals, Portland firm G.R. Carr is the successful tenderer for the $770,000 contract for the project’s civil works.
Work at the site is expected to begin soon and the project is scheduled to be commissioned by mid-2019, weather permitting.
Once connected to the grid network, the wind generator will produce more than two gigawatt hours of renewable energy each year and reduce carbon emissions by 2000 tonnes a year.
