CTW’s Canomodine Pump Station solar PV site.
Central Tablelands Water (CTW) has recently commissioned two renewable energy projects throughout its water supply network to help reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and energy costs.
CTW as an associate member of the Central NSW Joint Organisation (CNSWJO) participated in a procurement process for the supply and installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for the Carcoar Water Treatment Plant and Canomodine Pump Station sites.
The process of converting sunlight into electricity using PV systems produces zero greenhouse gas emissions. Excess electricity can then be directed into the grid, or it can be stored in a rechargeable battery for later use.
The Chairman of CTW, Cr David Somervaille said, “The Board resolved in June 2022 to endorse a staged approach to the implementation of renewable energy at strategic CTW sites. These sites were recommended through an independent Solar PV and Battery System Optimisation Report. It is now very pleasing to see that CTW is well on its way to delivering on the staged approach.”
Gavin Rhodes, General Manager at CTW said, “Early results from the renewable energy projects at the Carcoar Water Treatment Plant and Canomodine Pump Station are making a positive impact from an environmental and financial perspective. We have managed to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and our electricity charges by utilising solar to pump during the day without incurring significant peak rates by otherwise importing electricity from the grid. Previously we had to do a lot of pumping at night during off-peak times to keep our electricity costs down.”
Mr Rhodes added, “It is also pleasing to acknowledge the grants from both NSW Safe & Secure and NSW Restart funding schemes for the construction of a new 12 Megalitre (ML) Clear Water Tank at Carcoar Water Treatment Plant.