EnergyAustralia has discharged water from the Yallourn coal mine to free up rainwater storage on site after cracks appeared at the operation’s Morwell River Diversion last month.
The company has worked with the Victorian Government to deliver the temporary measure, which has been approved by the Environmental Protection Authority.
According to the state government, long-term repair works cannot be made unless water is diverted.
“The situation at Yallourn is now stable, but it remains critical that we find a long-term solution to protect the mine and ensure Victoria’s energy security,” Victorian Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio said.
The Victorian Government does not anticipate that rainfall will cause any short-term energy supply issues with works to seal the cracks underway.
This will involve relieving pressure on the Morwell River Diversion to complete the damage assessment and undertake permanent repairs.
“EnergyAustralia is getting on with the immediate work required to reduce risks at the Yallourn mine, under the oversight of Earth Resources Regulation and other relevant government agencies,” Minister for Resources Jaclyn Symes said.
EnergyAustralia has conducted real-time ground monitoring radar at Yallourn as part of the longer-term repair strategy.
The Victorian Government declared a State of Emergency in June to deliver urgent repairs to the Morwell River Diversion.
“As we continue to reiterate, relieving pressure on the Morwell River Diversion is essential to complete the damage assessment alongside critical, permanent repairs to be undertaken,” EnergyAustralia executive Liz Westcott said.
“There are additional diversion options that need to be progressed. Once they are finalised, similar with today we will inform the community so they’re clear on our approach and have confidence we are caring for the surrounding environment.
“We would like to thank the government, regulators and unions from a health and safety perspective. The progress we’ve made is the result of our teams working collaboratively with one another.”