Latest news with #HunterPowerProject
The Advertiser
21-07-2025
- General
- The Advertiser
Apology for diesel pollution as Kurri power plant fires-up for next round of testing
Snowy Hydro has apologised for allowing diesel fumes to spew across the Lower Hunter communities during the first round of testing of the new $2 billion Hunter Power Project. But it has warned there may be more foul odours to come when it starts testing with gas this week. Residents from Kurri Kurri to Belmont, Newcastle and West Wallsend said they smelt a strong, burning diesel-like smell on July 8 and 9. Some reported burning eyes and breathing issues. Testing was stopped following the widespread complaints. "We sincerely apologise for not meeting community expectations regarding providing information about the testing more broadly across the region," Snowy Hydro said in a statement. Gas, the 660-megawatt plant's primary fuel, will be used for the next round of testing, which will commence on Monday. Snowy Hydro warned there may be a potential plume and associated noise and odour when the turbine starts up again. "While these impacts will only last a short period and will be dependent on weather conditions at the time of testing, we have also increased the level of air monitoring outside the site boundary," the company said. "The nature of turning on a brand new generator for the first time means there is uncertainty regarding how it will perform as we fine-tune the turbines so they operate efficiently when we switch to full operations." A NSW Environment Protection Authority spokesman said the agency's investigation into the first pollution incident was ongoing. He said the EPA was finalising a review of Snowy Hydro's additional control measures to manage emissions and ensure the community was adequately consulted. "We are pleased Snowy Hydro has committed to increasing the amount of monitoring and has strengthened community engagement," he said. "As part of its Environment Protection Licence for the site, the power station is required to conduct continuous emissions monitoring, including during this commissioning phase, where emissions are usually higher than normal operation." EPA officers will monitor the commissioning work, including conducting odour surveys in the area while the commissioning is undertaken. Once fully tested, the efficiency of the turbines will result in significantly reduced emissions. Testing will be undertaken at night and is expected to take six to eight weeks. Improvements to noticeable emissions and odour are expected each week as the commissioning process progresses. The Hunter Power Project was originally intended to be built in time for the closure of the Liddell coal-fired power station in April 2023. It is expected that the peaking plant will be used for only about 5 per cent of the time once it is fully operational. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, along with Hunter MPs, committed an additional $700 million towards the green hydrogen project on the eve of the 2022 federal election. Labor had hoped to start running the plant on 30 per cent green hydrogen from day one and ramp up to 100 per cent by 2030. While the plant's open-cycle gas turbines have been designed to allow for a 15 per cent hydrogen-gas blend, it quickly became apparent that the green hydrogen dream was technically impossible within the proposed timeframe. Snowy Hydro has apologised for allowing diesel fumes to spew across the Lower Hunter communities during the first round of testing of the new $2 billion Hunter Power Project. But it has warned there may be more foul odours to come when it starts testing with gas this week. Residents from Kurri Kurri to Belmont, Newcastle and West Wallsend said they smelt a strong, burning diesel-like smell on July 8 and 9. Some reported burning eyes and breathing issues. Testing was stopped following the widespread complaints. "We sincerely apologise for not meeting community expectations regarding providing information about the testing more broadly across the region," Snowy Hydro said in a statement. Gas, the 660-megawatt plant's primary fuel, will be used for the next round of testing, which will commence on Monday. Snowy Hydro warned there may be a potential plume and associated noise and odour when the turbine starts up again. "While these impacts will only last a short period and will be dependent on weather conditions at the time of testing, we have also increased the level of air monitoring outside the site boundary," the company said. "The nature of turning on a brand new generator for the first time means there is uncertainty regarding how it will perform as we fine-tune the turbines so they operate efficiently when we switch to full operations." A NSW Environment Protection Authority spokesman said the agency's investigation into the first pollution incident was ongoing. He said the EPA was finalising a review of Snowy Hydro's additional control measures to manage emissions and ensure the community was adequately consulted. "We are pleased Snowy Hydro has committed to increasing the amount of monitoring and has strengthened community engagement," he said. "As part of its Environment Protection Licence for the site, the power station is required to conduct continuous emissions monitoring, including during this commissioning phase, where emissions are usually higher than normal operation." EPA officers will monitor the commissioning work, including conducting odour surveys in the area while the commissioning is undertaken. Once fully tested, the efficiency of the turbines will result in significantly reduced emissions. Testing will be undertaken at night and is expected to take six to eight weeks. Improvements to noticeable emissions and odour are expected each week as the commissioning process progresses. The Hunter Power Project was originally intended to be built in time for the closure of the Liddell coal-fired power station in April 2023. It is expected that the peaking plant will be used for only about 5 per cent of the time once it is fully operational. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, along with Hunter MPs, committed an additional $700 million towards the green hydrogen project on the eve of the 2022 federal election. Labor had hoped to start running the plant on 30 per cent green hydrogen from day one and ramp up to 100 per cent by 2030. While the plant's open-cycle gas turbines have been designed to allow for a 15 per cent hydrogen-gas blend, it quickly became apparent that the green hydrogen dream was technically impossible within the proposed timeframe. Snowy Hydro has apologised for allowing diesel fumes to spew across the Lower Hunter communities during the first round of testing of the new $2 billion Hunter Power Project. But it has warned there may be more foul odours to come when it starts testing with gas this week. Residents from Kurri Kurri to Belmont, Newcastle and West Wallsend said they smelt a strong, burning diesel-like smell on July 8 and 9. Some reported burning eyes and breathing issues. Testing was stopped following the widespread complaints. "We sincerely apologise for not meeting community expectations regarding providing information about the testing more broadly across the region," Snowy Hydro said in a statement. Gas, the 660-megawatt plant's primary fuel, will be used for the next round of testing, which will commence on Monday. Snowy Hydro warned there may be a potential plume and associated noise and odour when the turbine starts up again. "While these impacts will only last a short period and will be dependent on weather conditions at the time of testing, we have also increased the level of air monitoring outside the site boundary," the company said. "The nature of turning on a brand new generator for the first time means there is uncertainty regarding how it will perform as we fine-tune the turbines so they operate efficiently when we switch to full operations." A NSW Environment Protection Authority spokesman said the agency's investigation into the first pollution incident was ongoing. He said the EPA was finalising a review of Snowy Hydro's additional control measures to manage emissions and ensure the community was adequately consulted. "We are pleased Snowy Hydro has committed to increasing the amount of monitoring and has strengthened community engagement," he said. "As part of its Environment Protection Licence for the site, the power station is required to conduct continuous emissions monitoring, including during this commissioning phase, where emissions are usually higher than normal operation." EPA officers will monitor the commissioning work, including conducting odour surveys in the area while the commissioning is undertaken. Once fully tested, the efficiency of the turbines will result in significantly reduced emissions. Testing will be undertaken at night and is expected to take six to eight weeks. Improvements to noticeable emissions and odour are expected each week as the commissioning process progresses. The Hunter Power Project was originally intended to be built in time for the closure of the Liddell coal-fired power station in April 2023. It is expected that the peaking plant will be used for only about 5 per cent of the time once it is fully operational. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, along with Hunter MPs, committed an additional $700 million towards the green hydrogen project on the eve of the 2022 federal election. Labor had hoped to start running the plant on 30 per cent green hydrogen from day one and ramp up to 100 per cent by 2030. While the plant's open-cycle gas turbines have been designed to allow for a 15 per cent hydrogen-gas blend, it quickly became apparent that the green hydrogen dream was technically impossible within the proposed timeframe. Snowy Hydro has apologised for allowing diesel fumes to spew across the Lower Hunter communities during the first round of testing of the new $2 billion Hunter Power Project. But it has warned there may be more foul odours to come when it starts testing with gas this week. Residents from Kurri Kurri to Belmont, Newcastle and West Wallsend said they smelt a strong, burning diesel-like smell on July 8 and 9. Some reported burning eyes and breathing issues. Testing was stopped following the widespread complaints. "We sincerely apologise for not meeting community expectations regarding providing information about the testing more broadly across the region," Snowy Hydro said in a statement. Gas, the 660-megawatt plant's primary fuel, will be used for the next round of testing, which will commence on Monday. Snowy Hydro warned there may be a potential plume and associated noise and odour when the turbine starts up again. "While these impacts will only last a short period and will be dependent on weather conditions at the time of testing, we have also increased the level of air monitoring outside the site boundary," the company said. "The nature of turning on a brand new generator for the first time means there is uncertainty regarding how it will perform as we fine-tune the turbines so they operate efficiently when we switch to full operations." A NSW Environment Protection Authority spokesman said the agency's investigation into the first pollution incident was ongoing. He said the EPA was finalising a review of Snowy Hydro's additional control measures to manage emissions and ensure the community was adequately consulted. "We are pleased Snowy Hydro has committed to increasing the amount of monitoring and has strengthened community engagement," he said. "As part of its Environment Protection Licence for the site, the power station is required to conduct continuous emissions monitoring, including during this commissioning phase, where emissions are usually higher than normal operation." EPA officers will monitor the commissioning work, including conducting odour surveys in the area while the commissioning is undertaken. Once fully tested, the efficiency of the turbines will result in significantly reduced emissions. Testing will be undertaken at night and is expected to take six to eight weeks. Improvements to noticeable emissions and odour are expected each week as the commissioning process progresses. The Hunter Power Project was originally intended to be built in time for the closure of the Liddell coal-fired power station in April 2023. It is expected that the peaking plant will be used for only about 5 per cent of the time once it is fully operational. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, along with Hunter MPs, committed an additional $700 million towards the green hydrogen project on the eve of the 2022 federal election. Labor had hoped to start running the plant on 30 per cent green hydrogen from day one and ramp up to 100 per cent by 2030. While the plant's open-cycle gas turbines have been designed to allow for a 15 per cent hydrogen-gas blend, it quickly became apparent that the green hydrogen dream was technically impossible within the proposed timeframe.
The Advertiser
10-07-2025
- Politics
- The Advertiser
Gas plant that caused stink in parts of the Hunter to stay off this week
TESTING has halted at the Hunter's newest power generator for at least a week as investigations into an odour detected across the region get under way. Snowy Hydro CEO Dennis Barnes told ABC Radio they would pause operations for the next week or so while they figure out what went wrong. Burning eyes and breathing issues plagued residents in parts of the Hunter after Kurri Kurri's Hunter Power Project began late last week. From Kurri Kurri to Belmont, Newcastle and West Wallsend people noticed a strong, burning diesel-like smell moving through Tuesday, July 8, afternoon and into Wednesday, July 9. "We were getting responses all around the Hunter," federal member Dan Repacholi said. "They're having trouble breathing and their washing reeks of fumes," he said. In response to the public outcry, Snowy Hydro Hunter Project Power team paused their testing at the Kurri Kurri gas station on Wednesday afternoon, a spokesperson said. They said during the testing phase of a new turbine, both gas and diesel were used but once fully operational, the station would operate on gas with diesel as a back-up. "The testing resulted in visible emissions and an odour that drifted over parts of the Hunter," they said. "We understand this caused undue discomfort and worry, and for that, we sincerely apologise to the local community." The spokesperson said they were working with the EPA to further investigate the emissions, the possible source of the odour, and to undertake extra monitoring of air quality. Mr Barnes said they would consider beginning gas commissioning of the plant over the coming weeks, but going forward, the wider Hunter community would be notified of future operations. He said gas testing would not have the same effect as diesel testing. "The problem in the last week is we were burning diesel before the plant was synchronised with the grid, in full operation, we won't get any of these emissions," he said. He said they would have to test the turbines on diesel at some point but they would not go ahead until they figured out how to prevent the stink caused from this week's testing. The Hunter MP said his office was inundated with anywhere from 600 to 1000 concerned residents reaching out in less than 24 hours. "We have had doctors ringing up saying their surgeries are being overrun by this issue," he said. "We've had childcare centres that have said they've had to send their kids home." Concerned residents have contacted the Newcastle Herald to complain of the "burning diesel" smell and fumes visible in the air. One Black Hill resident said that at about 10.30am on Wednesday morning, she could almost "taste" the smell, while another in West Wallsend said the smell was "sickening" Mr Repacholi said the community needed clear communication, accountability and a plan for residents when the smell happens again. "Locals deserve to know what's in the air and how long it's going to last and what's being done to minimise any harm," he said. "Honestly, the communication levels from Snowy Hydro have been disgusting." Mr Repacholi said that neither he nor other federal, state or local government had communicated about the potential air pollution risk. "I've raised my concerns to the energy minister already, and it has definitely gone up the chain," he said. "That's just not good enough by Snowy Hydro, they need to be better, and they should be better." Late last week, Snowy Hydro's Hunter Power Project team successfully fired up one of the Kurri Kurri stations' gas turbines for the first time. The gas-fired project entered the national grid in March, two years after it was meant to begin operating. Snowy Hyrdo stated that the power station remained on track to be delivered within it's target of around $1.3 billion but in March the Newcastle Herald reported that costs could be closer to $2 billion. A Snowy Hydro spokesperson they had continuous emissions monitoring on-site and were currently operating within environmental compliance limits. The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) confirmed they had officers in Kurri Kurri on Wednesday investigating reports of visible and odorous emissions. "The source appears to be the new Hunter Power Station near Kurri Kurri where Snowy Hydro is currently commissioning gas/diesel turbine units," a spokesperson said. Commissioning is when new equipment is tested to ensure it is operating safely before being brought into full working order. The EPA said they reviewed air dispersion modelling ahead of the commissioning phase of the site, which predicted the emissions would not have any adverse effect on public health or the environment. They said the power station was required to conduct continous emissions monitoring, including during the commissioning phase where emissions are usually higher than normal operation. "We will check that the emissions limits haven't been breached and continue to closely monitor the process to ensure compliance with the environmental standards," they said. TESTING has halted at the Hunter's newest power generator for at least a week as investigations into an odour detected across the region get under way. Snowy Hydro CEO Dennis Barnes told ABC Radio they would pause operations for the next week or so while they figure out what went wrong. Burning eyes and breathing issues plagued residents in parts of the Hunter after Kurri Kurri's Hunter Power Project began late last week. From Kurri Kurri to Belmont, Newcastle and West Wallsend people noticed a strong, burning diesel-like smell moving through Tuesday, July 8, afternoon and into Wednesday, July 9. "We were getting responses all around the Hunter," federal member Dan Repacholi said. "They're having trouble breathing and their washing reeks of fumes," he said. In response to the public outcry, Snowy Hydro Hunter Project Power team paused their testing at the Kurri Kurri gas station on Wednesday afternoon, a spokesperson said. They said during the testing phase of a new turbine, both gas and diesel were used but once fully operational, the station would operate on gas with diesel as a back-up. "The testing resulted in visible emissions and an odour that drifted over parts of the Hunter," they said. "We understand this caused undue discomfort and worry, and for that, we sincerely apologise to the local community." The spokesperson said they were working with the EPA to further investigate the emissions, the possible source of the odour, and to undertake extra monitoring of air quality. Mr Barnes said they would consider beginning gas commissioning of the plant over the coming weeks, but going forward, the wider Hunter community would be notified of future operations. He said gas testing would not have the same effect as diesel testing. "The problem in the last week is we were burning diesel before the plant was synchronised with the grid, in full operation, we won't get any of these emissions," he said. He said they would have to test the turbines on diesel at some point but they would not go ahead until they figured out how to prevent the stink caused from this week's testing. The Hunter MP said his office was inundated with anywhere from 600 to 1000 concerned residents reaching out in less than 24 hours. "We have had doctors ringing up saying their surgeries are being overrun by this issue," he said. "We've had childcare centres that have said they've had to send their kids home." Concerned residents have contacted the Newcastle Herald to complain of the "burning diesel" smell and fumes visible in the air. One Black Hill resident said that at about 10.30am on Wednesday morning, she could almost "taste" the smell, while another in West Wallsend said the smell was "sickening" Mr Repacholi said the community needed clear communication, accountability and a plan for residents when the smell happens again. "Locals deserve to know what's in the air and how long it's going to last and what's being done to minimise any harm," he said. "Honestly, the communication levels from Snowy Hydro have been disgusting." Mr Repacholi said that neither he nor other federal, state or local government had communicated about the potential air pollution risk. "I've raised my concerns to the energy minister already, and it has definitely gone up the chain," he said. "That's just not good enough by Snowy Hydro, they need to be better, and they should be better." Late last week, Snowy Hydro's Hunter Power Project team successfully fired up one of the Kurri Kurri stations' gas turbines for the first time. The gas-fired project entered the national grid in March, two years after it was meant to begin operating. Snowy Hyrdo stated that the power station remained on track to be delivered within it's target of around $1.3 billion but in March the Newcastle Herald reported that costs could be closer to $2 billion. A Snowy Hydro spokesperson they had continuous emissions monitoring on-site and were currently operating within environmental compliance limits. The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) confirmed they had officers in Kurri Kurri on Wednesday investigating reports of visible and odorous emissions. "The source appears to be the new Hunter Power Station near Kurri Kurri where Snowy Hydro is currently commissioning gas/diesel turbine units," a spokesperson said. Commissioning is when new equipment is tested to ensure it is operating safely before being brought into full working order. The EPA said they reviewed air dispersion modelling ahead of the commissioning phase of the site, which predicted the emissions would not have any adverse effect on public health or the environment. They said the power station was required to conduct continous emissions monitoring, including during the commissioning phase where emissions are usually higher than normal operation. "We will check that the emissions limits haven't been breached and continue to closely monitor the process to ensure compliance with the environmental standards," they said. TESTING has halted at the Hunter's newest power generator for at least a week as investigations into an odour detected across the region get under way. Snowy Hydro CEO Dennis Barnes told ABC Radio they would pause operations for the next week or so while they figure out what went wrong. Burning eyes and breathing issues plagued residents in parts of the Hunter after Kurri Kurri's Hunter Power Project began late last week. From Kurri Kurri to Belmont, Newcastle and West Wallsend people noticed a strong, burning diesel-like smell moving through Tuesday, July 8, afternoon and into Wednesday, July 9. "We were getting responses all around the Hunter," federal member Dan Repacholi said. "They're having trouble breathing and their washing reeks of fumes," he said. In response to the public outcry, Snowy Hydro Hunter Project Power team paused their testing at the Kurri Kurri gas station on Wednesday afternoon, a spokesperson said. They said during the testing phase of a new turbine, both gas and diesel were used but once fully operational, the station would operate on gas with diesel as a back-up. "The testing resulted in visible emissions and an odour that drifted over parts of the Hunter," they said. "We understand this caused undue discomfort and worry, and for that, we sincerely apologise to the local community." The spokesperson said they were working with the EPA to further investigate the emissions, the possible source of the odour, and to undertake extra monitoring of air quality. Mr Barnes said they would consider beginning gas commissioning of the plant over the coming weeks, but going forward, the wider Hunter community would be notified of future operations. He said gas testing would not have the same effect as diesel testing. "The problem in the last week is we were burning diesel before the plant was synchronised with the grid, in full operation, we won't get any of these emissions," he said. He said they would have to test the turbines on diesel at some point but they would not go ahead until they figured out how to prevent the stink caused from this week's testing. The Hunter MP said his office was inundated with anywhere from 600 to 1000 concerned residents reaching out in less than 24 hours. "We have had doctors ringing up saying their surgeries are being overrun by this issue," he said. "We've had childcare centres that have said they've had to send their kids home." Concerned residents have contacted the Newcastle Herald to complain of the "burning diesel" smell and fumes visible in the air. One Black Hill resident said that at about 10.30am on Wednesday morning, she could almost "taste" the smell, while another in West Wallsend said the smell was "sickening" Mr Repacholi said the community needed clear communication, accountability and a plan for residents when the smell happens again. "Locals deserve to know what's in the air and how long it's going to last and what's being done to minimise any harm," he said. "Honestly, the communication levels from Snowy Hydro have been disgusting." Mr Repacholi said that neither he nor other federal, state or local government had communicated about the potential air pollution risk. "I've raised my concerns to the energy minister already, and it has definitely gone up the chain," he said. "That's just not good enough by Snowy Hydro, they need to be better, and they should be better." Late last week, Snowy Hydro's Hunter Power Project team successfully fired up one of the Kurri Kurri stations' gas turbines for the first time. The gas-fired project entered the national grid in March, two years after it was meant to begin operating. Snowy Hyrdo stated that the power station remained on track to be delivered within it's target of around $1.3 billion but in March the Newcastle Herald reported that costs could be closer to $2 billion. A Snowy Hydro spokesperson they had continuous emissions monitoring on-site and were currently operating within environmental compliance limits. The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) confirmed they had officers in Kurri Kurri on Wednesday investigating reports of visible and odorous emissions. "The source appears to be the new Hunter Power Station near Kurri Kurri where Snowy Hydro is currently commissioning gas/diesel turbine units," a spokesperson said. Commissioning is when new equipment is tested to ensure it is operating safely before being brought into full working order. The EPA said they reviewed air dispersion modelling ahead of the commissioning phase of the site, which predicted the emissions would not have any adverse effect on public health or the environment. They said the power station was required to conduct continous emissions monitoring, including during the commissioning phase where emissions are usually higher than normal operation. "We will check that the emissions limits haven't been breached and continue to closely monitor the process to ensure compliance with the environmental standards," they said. TESTING has halted at the Hunter's newest power generator for at least a week as investigations into an odour detected across the region get under way. Snowy Hydro CEO Dennis Barnes told ABC Radio they would pause operations for the next week or so while they figure out what went wrong. Burning eyes and breathing issues plagued residents in parts of the Hunter after Kurri Kurri's Hunter Power Project began late last week. From Kurri Kurri to Belmont, Newcastle and West Wallsend people noticed a strong, burning diesel-like smell moving through Tuesday, July 8, afternoon and into Wednesday, July 9. "We were getting responses all around the Hunter," federal member Dan Repacholi said. "They're having trouble breathing and their washing reeks of fumes," he said. In response to the public outcry, Snowy Hydro Hunter Project Power team paused their testing at the Kurri Kurri gas station on Wednesday afternoon, a spokesperson said. They said during the testing phase of a new turbine, both gas and diesel were used but once fully operational, the station would operate on gas with diesel as a back-up. "The testing resulted in visible emissions and an odour that drifted over parts of the Hunter," they said. "We understand this caused undue discomfort and worry, and for that, we sincerely apologise to the local community." The spokesperson said they were working with the EPA to further investigate the emissions, the possible source of the odour, and to undertake extra monitoring of air quality. Mr Barnes said they would consider beginning gas commissioning of the plant over the coming weeks, but going forward, the wider Hunter community would be notified of future operations. He said gas testing would not have the same effect as diesel testing. "The problem in the last week is we were burning diesel before the plant was synchronised with the grid, in full operation, we won't get any of these emissions," he said. He said they would have to test the turbines on diesel at some point but they would not go ahead until they figured out how to prevent the stink caused from this week's testing. The Hunter MP said his office was inundated with anywhere from 600 to 1000 concerned residents reaching out in less than 24 hours. "We have had doctors ringing up saying their surgeries are being overrun by this issue," he said. "We've had childcare centres that have said they've had to send their kids home." Concerned residents have contacted the Newcastle Herald to complain of the "burning diesel" smell and fumes visible in the air. One Black Hill resident said that at about 10.30am on Wednesday morning, she could almost "taste" the smell, while another in West Wallsend said the smell was "sickening" Mr Repacholi said the community needed clear communication, accountability and a plan for residents when the smell happens again. "Locals deserve to know what's in the air and how long it's going to last and what's being done to minimise any harm," he said. "Honestly, the communication levels from Snowy Hydro have been disgusting." Mr Repacholi said that neither he nor other federal, state or local government had communicated about the potential air pollution risk. "I've raised my concerns to the energy minister already, and it has definitely gone up the chain," he said. "That's just not good enough by Snowy Hydro, they need to be better, and they should be better." Late last week, Snowy Hydro's Hunter Power Project team successfully fired up one of the Kurri Kurri stations' gas turbines for the first time. The gas-fired project entered the national grid in March, two years after it was meant to begin operating. Snowy Hyrdo stated that the power station remained on track to be delivered within it's target of around $1.3 billion but in March the Newcastle Herald reported that costs could be closer to $2 billion. A Snowy Hydro spokesperson they had continuous emissions monitoring on-site and were currently operating within environmental compliance limits. The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) confirmed they had officers in Kurri Kurri on Wednesday investigating reports of visible and odorous emissions. "The source appears to be the new Hunter Power Station near Kurri Kurri where Snowy Hydro is currently commissioning gas/diesel turbine units," a spokesperson said. Commissioning is when new equipment is tested to ensure it is operating safely before being brought into full working order. The EPA said they reviewed air dispersion modelling ahead of the commissioning phase of the site, which predicted the emissions would not have any adverse effect on public health or the environment. They said the power station was required to conduct continous emissions monitoring, including during the commissioning phase where emissions are usually higher than normal operation. "We will check that the emissions limits haven't been breached and continue to closely monitor the process to ensure compliance with the environmental standards," they said.
The Advertiser
09-07-2025
- General
- The Advertiser
'Burning diesel' stink wafts through Kurri Kurri, EPA investigates
A foul, burning diesel-like smell has reportedly settled over Kurri Kurri. Residents noticed a strong odour wafting through the Hunter town on the afternoon of Tuesday, July 8, and into Wednesday, July 9. Federal member for the Hunter, Dan Repacholi, said he had been contacted by a number of concerned locals about the foul smell. In an online statement, he said it had reportedly caused breathing difficulties, especially in children. Concerned residents have contacted the Newcastle Herald to complain of the "burning diesel" smell and fumes visible in the air. One Black Hill resident said that at about 10.30am on Wednesday morning, she could almost "taste" the smell. Residents all the way in Wallsend, West Wallsend and Booragul also reported a gas-like smell. While the source of the odour was yet to be determined, Mr Repacholi said he had reached out to the Snowy Hydro Hunter Power Project team at the Kurri gas plant to see if they had any information about the stench. Late last week, Snowy Hydro's Hunter Power Project team successfully fired up one of the Kurri Kurri stations' gas turbines for the first time. A Snowy Hydro spokesperson had said that as the commissioning process continues throughout this week, emissions would be noticeable, with improvements expected next week. "We have continuous emissions monitoring on-site, and we are currently operating within environmental compliance limits," they said. The Newcastle Herald understands that the turbine was being tested on diesel, but once it is fully operational, it will run on gas. The NSW Environment Protection Authority has confirmed it is investigating the incident but has not yet determined if the smell was linked to the gas plant. Have you noticed the stink? Contact news@ A foul, burning diesel-like smell has reportedly settled over Kurri Kurri. Residents noticed a strong odour wafting through the Hunter town on the afternoon of Tuesday, July 8, and into Wednesday, July 9. Federal member for the Hunter, Dan Repacholi, said he had been contacted by a number of concerned locals about the foul smell. In an online statement, he said it had reportedly caused breathing difficulties, especially in children. Concerned residents have contacted the Newcastle Herald to complain of the "burning diesel" smell and fumes visible in the air. One Black Hill resident said that at about 10.30am on Wednesday morning, she could almost "taste" the smell. Residents all the way in Wallsend, West Wallsend and Booragul also reported a gas-like smell. While the source of the odour was yet to be determined, Mr Repacholi said he had reached out to the Snowy Hydro Hunter Power Project team at the Kurri gas plant to see if they had any information about the stench. Late last week, Snowy Hydro's Hunter Power Project team successfully fired up one of the Kurri Kurri stations' gas turbines for the first time. A Snowy Hydro spokesperson had said that as the commissioning process continues throughout this week, emissions would be noticeable, with improvements expected next week. "We have continuous emissions monitoring on-site, and we are currently operating within environmental compliance limits," they said. The Newcastle Herald understands that the turbine was being tested on diesel, but once it is fully operational, it will run on gas. The NSW Environment Protection Authority has confirmed it is investigating the incident but has not yet determined if the smell was linked to the gas plant. Have you noticed the stink? Contact news@ A foul, burning diesel-like smell has reportedly settled over Kurri Kurri. Residents noticed a strong odour wafting through the Hunter town on the afternoon of Tuesday, July 8, and into Wednesday, July 9. Federal member for the Hunter, Dan Repacholi, said he had been contacted by a number of concerned locals about the foul smell. In an online statement, he said it had reportedly caused breathing difficulties, especially in children. Concerned residents have contacted the Newcastle Herald to complain of the "burning diesel" smell and fumes visible in the air. One Black Hill resident said that at about 10.30am on Wednesday morning, she could almost "taste" the smell. Residents all the way in Wallsend, West Wallsend and Booragul also reported a gas-like smell. While the source of the odour was yet to be determined, Mr Repacholi said he had reached out to the Snowy Hydro Hunter Power Project team at the Kurri gas plant to see if they had any information about the stench. Late last week, Snowy Hydro's Hunter Power Project team successfully fired up one of the Kurri Kurri stations' gas turbines for the first time. A Snowy Hydro spokesperson had said that as the commissioning process continues throughout this week, emissions would be noticeable, with improvements expected next week. "We have continuous emissions monitoring on-site, and we are currently operating within environmental compliance limits," they said. The Newcastle Herald understands that the turbine was being tested on diesel, but once it is fully operational, it will run on gas. The NSW Environment Protection Authority has confirmed it is investigating the incident but has not yet determined if the smell was linked to the gas plant. Have you noticed the stink? Contact news@ A foul, burning diesel-like smell has reportedly settled over Kurri Kurri. Residents noticed a strong odour wafting through the Hunter town on the afternoon of Tuesday, July 8, and into Wednesday, July 9. Federal member for the Hunter, Dan Repacholi, said he had been contacted by a number of concerned locals about the foul smell. In an online statement, he said it had reportedly caused breathing difficulties, especially in children. Concerned residents have contacted the Newcastle Herald to complain of the "burning diesel" smell and fumes visible in the air. One Black Hill resident said that at about 10.30am on Wednesday morning, she could almost "taste" the smell. Residents all the way in Wallsend, West Wallsend and Booragul also reported a gas-like smell. While the source of the odour was yet to be determined, Mr Repacholi said he had reached out to the Snowy Hydro Hunter Power Project team at the Kurri gas plant to see if they had any information about the stench. Late last week, Snowy Hydro's Hunter Power Project team successfully fired up one of the Kurri Kurri stations' gas turbines for the first time. A Snowy Hydro spokesperson had said that as the commissioning process continues throughout this week, emissions would be noticeable, with improvements expected next week. "We have continuous emissions monitoring on-site, and we are currently operating within environmental compliance limits," they said. The Newcastle Herald understands that the turbine was being tested on diesel, but once it is fully operational, it will run on gas. The NSW Environment Protection Authority has confirmed it is investigating the incident but has not yet determined if the smell was linked to the gas plant. Have you noticed the stink? Contact news@
The Advertiser
08-07-2025
- Business
- The Advertiser
'Turning point': Kurri Kurri gas plant fired up for the first time
The gas-powered Kurri Kurri station has fired up for the first time. Snowy Hydro's Hunter Power Project team said they successfully ignited one of the station's two gas turbines and reached full speed late last week. "First fire is a turning point in the power station's development that confirms the design, construction and cold commissioning of the turbine has been successful," Snowy Hydro CEO Dennis Barnes said. The gas-fired project entered the national grid in March, two years after it was meant to begin operating. The 660-megawatt plant was originally intended to be built in time for the closure of the Liddell coal-fired power station in April 2023. In a statement, Snowy Hydro said the gas supply infrastructure was now complete with the station expected to reach full commercial operation the coming months. They said the project had been impacted by 69 days of bad weather in 2025, which had caused delays. The plant will only be used for about five per cent of the time, when electricity demand is high and renewable generation is limited. "Every megawatt of capacity provided by Kurri Kurri enables three megawatts of renewable wind and solar to come online and replace increasingly unreliable coal generation," Mr Barnes said. Snowy Hyrdo stated that the power station remained on track to be delivered within it's target of around $1.3 billion but in March the Newcastle Herald reported that costs could be closer to $2 billion. On the eve of the 2022 federal election, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, along with Hunter MPs, committed an additional $700 million towards a green hydrogen project at the plant. Mr Albanese conceded in January that the green hydrogen vision had not gone to plan, however, he had not given up on eventually using green hydrogen in the plant. He did not put a timeline on the project, but Mr Albanese confirmed the government's $700 million green hydrogen commitment remained. The gas-powered Kurri Kurri station has fired up for the first time. Snowy Hydro's Hunter Power Project team said they successfully ignited one of the station's two gas turbines and reached full speed late last week. "First fire is a turning point in the power station's development that confirms the design, construction and cold commissioning of the turbine has been successful," Snowy Hydro CEO Dennis Barnes said. The gas-fired project entered the national grid in March, two years after it was meant to begin operating. The 660-megawatt plant was originally intended to be built in time for the closure of the Liddell coal-fired power station in April 2023. In a statement, Snowy Hydro said the gas supply infrastructure was now complete with the station expected to reach full commercial operation the coming months. They said the project had been impacted by 69 days of bad weather in 2025, which had caused delays. The plant will only be used for about five per cent of the time, when electricity demand is high and renewable generation is limited. "Every megawatt of capacity provided by Kurri Kurri enables three megawatts of renewable wind and solar to come online and replace increasingly unreliable coal generation," Mr Barnes said. Snowy Hyrdo stated that the power station remained on track to be delivered within it's target of around $1.3 billion but in March the Newcastle Herald reported that costs could be closer to $2 billion. On the eve of the 2022 federal election, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, along with Hunter MPs, committed an additional $700 million towards a green hydrogen project at the plant. Mr Albanese conceded in January that the green hydrogen vision had not gone to plan, however, he had not given up on eventually using green hydrogen in the plant. He did not put a timeline on the project, but Mr Albanese confirmed the government's $700 million green hydrogen commitment remained. The gas-powered Kurri Kurri station has fired up for the first time. Snowy Hydro's Hunter Power Project team said they successfully ignited one of the station's two gas turbines and reached full speed late last week. "First fire is a turning point in the power station's development that confirms the design, construction and cold commissioning of the turbine has been successful," Snowy Hydro CEO Dennis Barnes said. The gas-fired project entered the national grid in March, two years after it was meant to begin operating. The 660-megawatt plant was originally intended to be built in time for the closure of the Liddell coal-fired power station in April 2023. In a statement, Snowy Hydro said the gas supply infrastructure was now complete with the station expected to reach full commercial operation the coming months. They said the project had been impacted by 69 days of bad weather in 2025, which had caused delays. The plant will only be used for about five per cent of the time, when electricity demand is high and renewable generation is limited. "Every megawatt of capacity provided by Kurri Kurri enables three megawatts of renewable wind and solar to come online and replace increasingly unreliable coal generation," Mr Barnes said. Snowy Hyrdo stated that the power station remained on track to be delivered within it's target of around $1.3 billion but in March the Newcastle Herald reported that costs could be closer to $2 billion. On the eve of the 2022 federal election, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, along with Hunter MPs, committed an additional $700 million towards a green hydrogen project at the plant. Mr Albanese conceded in January that the green hydrogen vision had not gone to plan, however, he had not given up on eventually using green hydrogen in the plant. He did not put a timeline on the project, but Mr Albanese confirmed the government's $700 million green hydrogen commitment remained. The gas-powered Kurri Kurri station has fired up for the first time. Snowy Hydro's Hunter Power Project team said they successfully ignited one of the station's two gas turbines and reached full speed late last week. "First fire is a turning point in the power station's development that confirms the design, construction and cold commissioning of the turbine has been successful," Snowy Hydro CEO Dennis Barnes said. The gas-fired project entered the national grid in March, two years after it was meant to begin operating. The 660-megawatt plant was originally intended to be built in time for the closure of the Liddell coal-fired power station in April 2023. In a statement, Snowy Hydro said the gas supply infrastructure was now complete with the station expected to reach full commercial operation the coming months. They said the project had been impacted by 69 days of bad weather in 2025, which had caused delays. The plant will only be used for about five per cent of the time, when electricity demand is high and renewable generation is limited. "Every megawatt of capacity provided by Kurri Kurri enables three megawatts of renewable wind and solar to come online and replace increasingly unreliable coal generation," Mr Barnes said. Snowy Hyrdo stated that the power station remained on track to be delivered within it's target of around $1.3 billion but in March the Newcastle Herald reported that costs could be closer to $2 billion. On the eve of the 2022 federal election, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, along with Hunter MPs, committed an additional $700 million towards a green hydrogen project at the plant. Mr Albanese conceded in January that the green hydrogen vision had not gone to plan, however, he had not given up on eventually using green hydrogen in the plant. He did not put a timeline on the project, but Mr Albanese confirmed the government's $700 million green hydrogen commitment remained.
