Work progresses on Colongra Gas Turbines

Construction commenced in October 2007 with a major milestone being reached in March this year with the first of four massive foundations being poured. The remaining three will be completed shortly.

Delta is planning delivery of the first gas turbine in September 2008. Each turbine weighs 343 tonnes and the semi trailer required to carry them will be 122.8 metres long.

The $500 million contract to construct the facility was awarded to international engineering firm, Alstom Limited. The project is providing employment for 100 people but Delta says that this will increase to around 150 people when the main mechanical and electrical work commences in September. In addition, many other local jobs have been created as Central Coast businesses have been engaged to supply products and services to the construction project.
Construction of the gas pipeline and associated infrastructure to supply the turbines is being undertaken by Alinta.

In August 2006, the Premier of New South Wales announced that approval had been granted for a new gas fired power station to help secure future power supply across New South Wales. With a capacity of 667 megawatts, it will generate enough power for 700,000 homes every hour it operates.

The new environmentally friendly gas-fired plant will produce about 40% less greenhouse gas emissions compared to coal-fired power plant.

The facility is an important enhancement to the State’s electricity system as it will be able to meet demand when it peaks during very hot or cold periods. Gas-fired power stations can fire up quickly at times of peak demand compared to coal-fired power stations.
Building the gas turbine facility on the Central Coast, near existing infrastructure, is part of Delta’s strategy to lower greenhouse gas emissions and broaden its portfolio of generation.

The new gas-fired power station will be in commercial operation by mid-late 2009.

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