Bureau of Meteorology to help Hydro Tasmania maximize clean energy production

Hydro Tasmania, the predominant electricity generator in the state of Tasmania, Australia, will be able to better harness and supply clean energy through a new partnership with the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM). The strategic relationship agreement will see BoM’s local meteorologists provide Hydro Tasmania with regular, tailored weather information to support its operations. This additional insight will enable the clean energy generator to better supply energy to Tasmanian households and businesses as well as into the national energy grid. For instance, providing tailored information about imminent extreme rainfall events, or the long-term likelihood of significant rainfall, can help Hydro Tasmania better make decisions about water management. The benefits of the partnership apply not only to Tasmania. When mainland states and territories are impacted by heatwaves, for example, additional insight regarding national weather conditions will allow Hydro Tasmania to consider how it can best support the national electricity needs. Under the partnership, BoM’s climatologists will also provide specific advice around the long-term climate outlook and analysis of historical conditions. Andrew Johnson, CEO, BoM, said, “Through this partnership, BoM’s expert local meteorologists will provide Hydro Tasmania’s teams with the latest weather information, as well as greater insight and analysis of the long-term climate outlook. This partnership is one of the many ways BoM will continue to use both its local and national staff to improve services to Tasmania and, ultimately, the nation.”