Verve Energy - Gas Crisis Update

Good progress is being made with returning power plant to service, as Verve Energy continues to meet its first priority – to keep the lights on.

An extraordinary amount of effort is being put in by Verve Energy employees and our contractors, and is likely to continue for many weeks.

Power Stations

Cockburn Power Station (gas) - the most efficient of Verve Energy’s generators, Cockburn (240MW) has been fully operational since early this week. Gas was directed to Cockburn from less efficient gas turbines.
Muja Power Station (coal) – Unit 7 is returning to service gradually from planned major upgrade. It is producing about 30% of its output, with full production still a couple of weeks away.
Stages AB – We are checking the condition of these machines which were shutdown 15 months ago. The intention is to have the first of these 60MW units operating early next month, depending on the amount of preparatory work that needs to be done on them.
Collie Power Station (coal) – Damaged turbine blades have been replaced with new blades made overseas and other damage is being repaired. This station (330MW) could be operating towards the end of July. An investigation team comprising Verve Energy, Alsthom which provided the machine; and Transfield Worley Parsons Services which operates the station, is continuing its inquiries into the cause of this incident.
Kwinana Power Station unit 1 (coal) – the return to operation of this 110MW unit which was out for planned maintenance was delayed until this weekend

Gas Bulletin Board

Verve Energy welcomed the introduction of this service. By mid next week, Verve Energy anticipates it could have a small quantity of gas available to offer on the Bulletin Board, at prices to cover our costs.

Verve Energy continues to burn gas, supplies of which were not interrupted by the Varanus Island incident; and significant quantities of diesel. Steps are being taken to replenish our depleted diesel stocks. As coal fired plant returns to operation, some gas could be freed up for commercial and industrial users. At all times, our priority is to keep our power stations operating so that “the lights stay on”.

For tips on how to save energy visit www.energy.wa.gov.au

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