Licence conditions for pollution studies and reduction program


  

Licence conditions for pollution studies and reduction programs

Summary
 
Licence number: 759
Title: Environmental Impact Study - Effect of Cessation of Flow from Inlet to Outlet Canals
Start date: 01 Nov 2012
 
Licence Condition
Background The licensee is proposing to close the Munmorah Power Station. The power station since its commissioning in the 1960's has been creating an artificial water flow from Lake Munmorah, via the cooling water inlet canal, to Budgewoi Lake, via the cooling water outlet canal. The licensee proposes ceasing operations of the water pumps and breaking through the barrier to join the inlet and outlet canal as a final solution at the shut down of the power station. Deliverables Prior to the salt water cooling pumps being turned off or other works being undertaken, the licensee must complete an appropriate impact study including but not limited to the impact on water quality and aquatic life within Lake Munmorah and Budgewoi Lake if the salt water cooling water pumps are turned off, if the inlet canal and outlet canal are connected and with respect to any other proposed solution following shut down. The licensee must provide a written report to the EPA by 30 June 2013 outlining possible water quality and aquatic life impacts and the proposed options for mitigating those impacts prior to or following shut down of the salt water cooling water pumps. Note: The salt water cooling water pumps, or alternative pumping system, generating flow in the canals must not be shut down prior to the completion of the impact study and the consideration of that study by the EPA. If the licensee proposes an earlier shut down than 30 June 2013, negotiations must be made with the EPA prior to any shut down.