Hydro Tasmania transfers water to other users for a range of purposes, such as irrigation.
Some agreements to transfer water are a result of pre-existing rights; others are statutory obligations, triggered by flood events or subject to memoranda of understanding. Where applicable, these transfer arrangements include a water charge.
Other arrangements to transfer water (allocations) are subject to a charge that is calculated annually.
This charge is intended to reflect the revenue that could have been earned by Hydro Tasmania if that water had been used for generation, and includes revenue from Renewable Energy Credits.
The water prices are calculated each year towards the end of April and published in early May.
The water prices are for water taken during the next 12-month period from 1 May to 30 April.
All transfers are subject to any additional terms and conditions that might be required by the Department of Primary Industries & Water (DPIW).
Three water prices are quoted:
- The winter 'dam fill' price - charged for water typically taken between 1 May and 30 November to fill farm dams
- The summer 'direct take' price - charged for water typically taken between 1 December and 30 April to irrigate crops
- The annual price - charged for water that could be taken at any time throughout the year.
These periods are intended to correspond with what DPIW places on normal water licences but may vary depending on local circumstances.
Explanation of water price calculation
For further information on water pricing, email webmaster@hydro.com.au