Onsite generators are being considered by MainPower alongside their new substation build to improve resilience of the power supply for the Hanmer Springs area.
MainPower is currently undertaking upgrades to the existing network in the Hanmer Springs area which has necessitated a two-day outage for the area in early March. MainPower engaged with the Hanmer Springs Community Board in 2023 to begin planning for this outage to ensure the impact on the community was minimised. This outage is being used as a trial to evaluate whether diesel generation will be a successful option before progressing with investment in our own generation. The central business area will be generated, as well as emergency services, the medical centre and the school.
The Hanmer Springs area provides a unique challenge for MainPower with a higher risk of power outages during adverse weather events such as high winds or snowstorms, or when wildlife or vehicles damage the power lines. The area is more vulnerable as the power is supplied by a single power line from Culverden.
MainPower Chief Executive Andy Lester says new generators could increase resilience and provide a more reliable supply for the region.
“We are hopeful that the generation of the Hanmer Springs central business area for the upcoming two-day planned power outage will prove to be successful. We’ve recognised we need to improve the resilience of the power supply to the Hanmer Springs area, and we’ve investigated a lot of options, from new line builds to a new grid exit point. This solution, of large generators temporarily sited on the existing substation site, could provide power for more than 90% of the area during planned and emergency outages.
“This addition to our network could ensure we’re able to keep the lights on and the heaters going when there is a fault on the line, or when we need to do maintenance or upgrades.”
The generator investment project is currently in the design and pricing phase and will need to go through the consenting process before full details including time frame can be confirmed.
Mr Lester says having the generators in place means similar outages may not be required for similar work in the future.
“We are dedicated to providing safe, secure and reliable power to all our communities. This is a short to medium term investment until more economic renewable solutions are available. We will continue to look for cost effective solutions and opportunities to do that as best we can.”
