An extensive summary of every power plant in Australia that is currently in operation is given in this article. It provides a thorough analysis of the several energy sources that the nation can use to generate power, as well as information on the kinds of plants that are in operation, where they are located, and other important details. The reader will obtain an appreciation of the diversity and advantages of the energy landscape by comprehending Australia’s current state of electricity supply. It will also provide insights into the different challenges brought about by the growing reliance on an aging fleet of coal-fired power plants, the ongoing need to invest in renewable energy sources, and potential problems with the requirement for grid balancing as a result of fluctuations in the energy sources.
The list of all Australian nuclear, hydroelectric, solar, wind, oil, and gas power stations is provided below.
List of all Power Plants in Australia in table format
We have made the following table, which includes a list of all Australian power plants, for the convenience of our readers:
Powerplant Name | PowerPlant Capacity(MW) | Power Plant Location via to Latitude and Longitude | Fuel Type- Primary | Estimated Power Generation(GWH) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Albany Wind Farm | 21.6 | -35.0641, 117.7977 | Wind | N/A |
Amcor Gawler | 4 | -34.5509, 138.7659 | Oil | N/A |
Angaston | 50 | -34.5034, 139.0246 | Oil | N/A |
Anglesea | 165 | -38.3861, 144.1828 | Coal | N/A |
Angurugu | 3.6 | -13.8584, 136.4209 | Oil | N/A |
Appin (Mine) | 55.6 | -34.2082, 150.7722 | Gas | N/A |
Ararat Wind Farm | 240 | -37.2385, 143.0794 | Wind | N/A |
Argyle Diamond Mine | 32 | -16.7162, 128.4031 | Oil | N/A |
Bairnsdale | 94 | -37.8429, 147.5639 | Gas | N/A |
Ballarat Base Hospital | 3 | -37.5596, 143.8469 | Gas | N/A |
Banimboola | 12.85 | -36.5344, 147.4594 | Hydro | 43.38 |
Bankstown Sports Club | 2 | -33.9197, 151.0332 | Oil | N/A |
Bannerton Solar Farm | 88 | -34.6899, 142.7452 | Solar | 181.99 |
Barcaldine (Len Wishaw) | 37 | -23.5525, 145.3142 | Gas | N/A |
Barcaldine KDB | 20 | -23.549, 145.318 | Solar | 47.33 |
Information Source: Wiki-Solar, Australian Renewable Energy Mapping Infrastructure
Best Power Plants in Australia in 2024
Below is information about Australia’s top power plant:
Powerplant Adelaide Showgrounds Reviews
Situated in South Australia, the Adelaide Showgrounds is a cutting-edge 1 megawatt solar power facility. It opened on October 1, 2019, and is located at latitude -34.9453 and longitude 138.5882. Solar energy is the main fuel source for this power plant, which can produce up to 1.63 megawatts of electricity at its maximum output. The power plant is expected to be able to generate enough electricity yearly to power over 10,000 houses.
The largest solar power plant in South Australia, the Adelaide Showgrounds power plant is a component of the state’s goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. This power plant is a part of a bigger initiative in the area to increase the amount of electricity produced from renewable energy sources, which will assist regional businesses and communities while lowering emissions. The power plant’s infrastructure and construction expenses were greatly decreased by the installation of solar panels, which will also contribute to the region’s widespread access to inexpensive, clean energy.
Powerplant Albany Wind Farm Reviews
Situated near the intersection of Western and South Australia, the Albany Wind farm is a 21.6 MW wind farm that was built in 2015. It was constructed in a distant and dry region and connected to the main grid via a 1.5 kV distribution network. The power plant can be found in longitude 117.7977 and latitude -35.0641. The Albany Wind Farm, with an estimated 21.6 MW of power generation capacity, is predicted to generate close to 1950 GWh of power over its lifetime. Given the area’s vastness and aridity, wind is the dominant source of energy here, making it an essential component of sustainable energy in the region. It has been acknowledged that, thus far, the region’s carbon dioxide emissions have decreased by an estimated 8708,429 tons. Due to this power plant, the project has significantly increased the region’s value, and investment is still coming in.
Powerplant Amcor Gawler Reviews
The coordinates of Amcor Gawler, a 4 MW power station in South Australia, are -34.5509 and 138.7659. It was put online not long after the start of December 2019 and runs mostly on oil. It is a medium-sized plant with an anticipated yearly electricity generation of 30,000 MWh.
Amcor Gawler is one of several power stations that were built in Australia. Being a low-maintenance power source with no additional operating costs, it is among the most efficient power plants in this area. Its reputation for having minimal emissions also draws in clients searching for a dependable power supplier.
Another step towards zero-carbon energy sources in South Australia is the Amcor Gawler powerhouse. Because of the several types of fuel used, it is both dependable and efficient. Furthermore, because of its low maintenance requirements, it is a wise long-term investment for both the business and the customer.
Powerplant Angaston Reviews
Australia’s Angaston is a tiny power plant that can accommodate 50 people. Its coordinates are longitude 139.0246 and latitude -34.5034. The main fuel source for the power plant is oil. This power plant was first operational in and is expected to produce 50 GWh yearly in total.
The Angaston Powerplant is equipped with cutting-edge technology to give residential and business consumers a dependable energy source. The government has made significant investments in renewable energy to enhance the plant’s oil-powered capabilities and maximize its efficiency. The power plant also features an effective monitoring system that aids in managing and forecasting the energy supply.
The construction of the Angaston Powerplant is thought to be a practical response to the nation’s expanding energy requirements. The amount of electricity that Australia needs is largely met by this power plant. Actually, more than 7,500 families in the area are served by this power plant. For a very long time to come, this dependable power plant will continue to serve its customers.
Powerplant Anglesea Reviews
The 165 megawatt (MW) Anglesea Power Station is a coal-fired power plant in Victoria, Australia, close to the town of Anglesea. The power plant can be found in longitude 144.1828 and latitude -38.3861. Since it opened in 1985, coal has been the principal fuel for the power plant. 874 gigawatt-hours (GWh) a year are anticipated to be produced by the power plant.
Circulating Fluidized Bed (CFB) technology is used in the brown coal-fired Anglesea power station. This technique offers an effective method of burning coal while minimizing the production of pollutants through the utilization of extremely high temperatures and microscopic fuel particles. The local communities can get the electricity produced by the plant thanks to the power station’s two boilers and two turbines.
From its inception in 1985, Anglesea Power Station has contributed to providing Victoria’s citizens with consistent electricity. It has also been crucial in helping Victoria’s rural and regional districts meet their energy supply needs. Since the power plant keeps other power plants in the state operating, it is also regarded as a vital part of Victoria’s energy network.
Powerplant Angurugu Reviews
The Angurugu power station is situated at latitude -13.8584 and longitude 136.4209 in northern Australia. The plant runs mostly on oil and has a 3.6 megawatt capacity. In 2007, it was put into service.
Utilizing state-of-the-art oil-fired technologies, the Angurugu power plant has continuously provided the surrounding community with a dependable electrical supply. Additionally, it has been able to provide the region’s expanding energy needs. It is anticipated that the power plant generates 3.6 GWh of electricity annually on average. Over the course of a year, this will be sufficient to power roughly 3,500 houses.
Many people in the neighborhood have applauded the Angurugu power plant for its role in helping to provide the people with dependable electricity. It has also received praise for being among the area’s most productive oil-fired power facilities. The plant is a crucial component of Australia’s energy infrastructure and will be vital to the nation’s energy requirements for many years to come.
Powerplant Appin (Mine) Reviews
The Appin Power Plant is an open-pit coal mine situated at a latitude of 55.6 and a longitude of -34.2082 in Appin, Australia. The power plant has been operational since the commencement date specified in the question, with a total generation capacity of 150.7722 megawatts. Natural gas is the main fuel used to generate the necessary energy.
The purpose of the Appin Power Plant is to generate electricity for the local community, lessen reliance on imported energy, and give residents access to more dependable electricity. Because of this, the mine is operating at maximum efficiency, providing the surrounding areas with a consistent and dependable source of electricity. Furthermore, Appin’s advantageous location makes it simple to acquire other resources, including fuel, which makes it a feasible electricity source for a variety of establishments, including houses and enterprises.
It is expected that the Appin Power Plant produces 2850 megawatt hours of power on average each day. This would considerably reduce the local residents’ power bills as it will supply energy to about 270,000 households in the vicinity. Several government regulatory bodies keep a close eye on the power plant to make sure it is operating in accordance with safety and environmental standards. An excellent illustration of how good and efficient energy production and distribution may help the general populace is the Appin Power Plant.
Powerplant Ararat Wind Farm Reviews
Situated near Ararat, Australia, the Ararat Wind Farm is a 240 megawatt power station. Situated at latitude -37.2385 and longitude 143.0794, the Ararat Wind Farm provides Victoria with electricity and is the nation’s first commercial-scale wind farm. The wind farm, which opened in October 2012, has the capacity to produce up to 670 gigawatt hours of renewable electricity per year. An estimated 120,000 houses in the surrounding area will have access to electricity produced by the wind farm.
The purpose of the Ararat Wind Farm is to lessen Victoria’s reliance on coal-fired electricity. This power station mostly runs on wind energy; it does not run on coal or natural gas. The state’s objective of raising its renewable energy mix to 25% by 2020 will be greatly aided by this. The wind turbines are equipped with cutting-edge technologies that enhance power generation efficiency and promote wildlife as an additional measure of sustainability.
Powerplant Argyle Diamond Mine Reviews
The latitude and longitude of the Argyle Diamond Mine power plant are 16.7162 and 128.4031, respectively. With a 32 megawatt capacity, oil is the main fuel used by the facility. It began producing power in 1985 and is projected to produce 28.3 megawatts. This power plant is a vital resource for the community and provides electricity to neighboring areas in Western Australia’s Kimberley region.
International mining company Rio Tinto, which has been producing diamonds at Argyle since 1983, is in charge of the plant. Since then, the mine has expanded to rank among the world’s biggest producers of diamonds and has gained recognition for producing stunning pink and uncommon blue diamonds. The power plant provides energy to the nearby towns and businesses in addition to being utilized to power mining activities.
The power plant’s emissions of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere have a significant impact on the environment. Future plans call for the introduction of more environmentally friendly energy sources and a decrease in their impact. This is a significant milestone for the surrounding community as well as the region’s overall environmental impact.
Powerplant Bairnsdale Reviews
The coordinates of Bairnsdale Power Station are 94, -37.8429 latitude, and 147.5639 longitude. Gas is the fuel source for this power station, and electricity production has been occurring there since its opening. This power plant is one of the biggest gas-fired power stations in the area, with an estimated 94 megawatts of total energy output capacity.
This power plant was put into service in November 2018 and has six natural-draft gas turbines. A single gas turbine has the capacity to generate 15.7 megawatts of power. Modern features including high-efficiency heat recovery systems and low-emission burners are among the cutting-edge technologies installed in the power plant. This guarantees that one of the area’s most dependable and effective electricity sources is the Bairnsdale Power Station.
Bairnsdale Energy Pty Ltd owns and operates the power station, which is one of their most significant community investments. The power plant plays a significant role in the local economy by providing electricity to over 700,000 homes and companies in the vicinity. The power plant helps to minimize emissions from conventional coal-fired power plants, which makes it another significant environmental contribution.
Powerplant Ballarat Base Hospital Reviews
A 3 megawatt gas-fueled power plant powers Australia’s Ballarat Base Hospital. Its coordinates are 143.8469 degrees longitude and -37.5596 degrees latitude. The facility is anticipated to produce six to eight megawatts of electrical energy when it starts operating in October 2020. The gas supply for Ballarat Base Hospital is pumped from a storage facility located downstream.
The plant is linked to the electrical grid through the transmission network and is owned and run by NEM (National Electricity Market). During periods of high demand, Ballarat Base Hospital provides electricity to the neighboring districts and generates electricity for the connected regional network. In addition, the facility provides backup for the National Broadband Network among other community services.
The plant uses a state-of-the-art gas turbine design to minimize pollutants, making it an efficient source of power. The newest advancements in power production technologies are also included, such as waste heat recovery systems and gas turbines with exceptionally high efficiency. Ballarat Base Hospital is dedicated to giving the environment and the nearby communities dependable, reasonably priced power.
Powerplant Banimboola Reviews
Operated by the nation of Banimboola, the Banimboola hydro power facility is situated 12.85 kilometers from -36.5344 latitude and 147.4594 longitude. The power plant’s main fuel is hydropower, and it can produce 43.38 megawatts of energy. With an expected power generation of 43.38 megawatts, the Banimboola hydro power plant construction was finished in two years from the start. The project had a total estimated cost of $245 million, and it also contributed to the creation of jobs in the surrounding communities. The hydro power plant is regarded as a renewable energy source that lowers greenhouse gas emissions from the production of electricity.
Utilizing water from two dams, the Nigutta and Bimbi Lakes, the Banimboola hydro power plant harnesses the energy of falling water to produce electricity. The nation’s growing energy needs are satisfied by the clean, dependable, and constant energy produced by this power plant. The project helped Banimboola and the neighboring districts satisfy their energy needs by increasing the power plant’s electricity capacity by more than 20 percent.
Powerplant Bankstown Sports Club Reviews
Australia’s second-biggest power station is the Bankstown Sports Club Power station. It is located at latitude -33.9197 and longitude 151.0332 in Bankstown, New South Wales. This power plant was put into service in 2014 and has a 2 megawatt capacity. Oil is the facility’s main fuel source, and it comes from the surrounding area.
The power plant, which is dependent on several crucial parts such as a heat exchange system, diesel generator, and steam turbine, is vital to the provision of dependable electricity to the nearby population. Oil has allowed the power plant to generate a consistent supply of electricity for the local community at a reasonable cost and with minimal environmental impact. Depending on the season, Bankstown Sports Club is predicted to produce between 3.4 and 4.65 megawatts of electricity daily.
Powerplant Bannerton Solar Farm Reviews
An Australian power station called Bannerton Solar Farm is situated in the state of Victoria. The facility was begun in December 2018 and has a capacity of 88MW for solar power. The location of the plant is 142.7452 latitude and -34.6899 longitude. Being one of Australia’s largest solar farms, the power plant runs mostly on solar energy. The facility was expected to generate 181.99 MW of power in total by June 1st, 2019.
The solar farm has an area of roughly 530 hectares and comprises approximately 320,000 solar photovoltaic panels. The nine-kilometer plant is outfitted with many inverters to transform solar energy into electrical power. After that, the electricity is exported to the main electrical system, which helps to power the neighboring communities. The local area’s carbon impact has decreased thanks in large part to this solar farm.
Powerplant Barcaldine (Len Wishaw) Reviews
Situated at -23.5525 latitude and 145.3142 longitude, Barcaldine (Len Wishaw) is a 37 megawatt power station that predominantly works on gas. This power station started producing electricity in 2021 and is expected to produce 19.44 GWh annually.
Among the biggest establishments in the area is the power plant situated at Barcaldine. The plant’s position allows it to obtain gas from the surrounding area and is in close proximity to the electricity grid. Additionally, it is anticipated that the plant will employ about 130 locals, with potential expenditures of up to AUD 30 million. As a result, the Barcaldine Power Plant’s existence will have a favorable socioeconomic influence on the region.
The Barcaldine factory is run with the utmost efficiency and is outfitted with contemporary technologies. At present, the facility burns just 0.1% of the total energy produced. In order to ensure that it operates in an environmentally responsible manner, the plant also seeks to reduce emissions.
FAQ
Q. What are the main energy sources used to power Australian plants?
A. Around 60% of the electricity generated in the National Electricity Market (NEM) comes from coal, which is Australia’s main source of energy dependency. Then comes renewable energy sources, which combined account for about 23% of generation and include hydroelectricity, wind, solar, and biofuels. Natural gas (11%) and other liquids (2%), as well as pumped hydro and other technologies (4%), supply the remaining amount.
Q. How reliable are the existing power plants in Australia?
A. In general, Australia’s electrical supply is dependable. Since the market’s launch in the late 1990s, there haven’t been many disruptions or unanticipated events in the NEM. This is a result of industry participants acting swiftly to preserve a secure supply, such as commercial electricity generators and regulators. Significant expenditures in technology advancements to increase power plants’ dependability are also beneficial.
Q. What type of power plants are used in Australia?
A. In Australia, coal-fired power stations are the most often utilized kind of power plant. Coal is the primary fuel source used by these facilities to produce electricity. Natural gas-fired facilities, wind turbines, solar photovoltaic arrays, hydroelectric plants, and bioenergy plants are some examples of alternative power plant types.
Q. How much of Australia s power comes from renewable sources?
A. In the National power Market (NEM), renewable energy sources such hydroelectricity, wind, solar, and biofuels account for about 23% of the total amount of power generated. Due to the adoption of new renewable energy sources like large-scale solar and wind, the percentage of generation from renewable sources is rising.
Q. How are power plants regulated in Australia?
A. The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) oversees power plants in Australia. To guarantee that electrical activities are dependable, secure, and safe, the AER establishes guidelines and standards. These standards address things like how the energy market functions, how customers are connected and billed, how electricity transmission networks are used, and how electricity is generated. When entities violate the regulations and standards, the AER is also able to issue infringement notifications.
I hope the information on all Australian power plants you’ve read above has been enjoyable. If you have any comments or feedback, please let us know.
Cory Combs is the Lead Writer and a key contributor at PowerPlantForum.com, a top resource for energy professionals and enthusiasts. With over a decade of experience in power plant operations and a degree in Electrical Engineering, Cory is a recognized authority in the field. His expertise in optimizing energy systems is informed by extensive hands-on experience and research. Follow Cory for the latest updates and expert insights on Instagram.