Construction on the reciprocating engine power station, adjacent to AGL’s Torrens Island Power Station, is expected to begin in the third quarter of 2017, with full operations expected in the first quarter of 2019.
“Our decision to move ahead with this development reflects our longstanding commitment to our South Australian customers and our contribution to creating a secure energy system as the market transitions,”? said AGL Managing Director and CEO Andy Vesey.
The new power station will replace two of the four Torrens A turbines, which AGL will progressively mothball from 1 July 2019.
“Torrens A is now 50 years old,”? said Mr Vesey.
“Our decision in June 2016 to defer its previously planned mothballing reflected the importance of maintaining security of supply in South Australia following the withdrawal at short notice of other thermal power stations.”?
The Barker Inlet Power Station will comprise 12 reciprocating engines capable of generating approximately 18 MW of output each and operating at higher efficiency with a lower heat rate than other forms of fast-start plant currently available.