Walpole Mini-Pumped Hydro
Western Power has partnered with WA engineering firm Power Research and Development (PRD) to develop a mini-pumped hydro facility in Walpole in the Great Southern and connect it to the South West Interconnected System (SWIS).
The system uses two dams, one higher and one lower, to store and move water. Solar panels and batteries power pumps that move water uphill, and when needed, the water flows back down through a turbine to generate electricity.
Once connected to the network as part of a microgrid, the Walpole mini-pumped hydro system can provide back-up supply to just over 500 local customers during unplanned outages.
Current status
Construction of the pumped-hydro facility is complete and energisation pending.
Western Power has completed its scope of work to date and issued an Interim Approval to Operate in July 2025, enabling the facility to begin generating power and participate in the wholesale electricity market.
The next stage is PRD’s completion of commissioning activities and submission of the required documentation.
Connected customers
The map below shows which customers would be supported by the Walpole mini-pumped hydro microgrid if an unplanned outage occurs.
