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
Western Power has completed its scope of work and issued an Interim Approval to Operate in July 2025.
PRD is now progressing testing, commissioning, and network integration activities to support full operational approval.
Connected customers
The map below shows which customers would be supported by the Walpole mini-pumped hydro microgrid if an unplanned outage occurs.
