Tyco Tamar and project partners Hydro Tasmania, Shaws and JMG have been presented with a "Highly Commended" award at the 2011 Tasmanian Engineering Excellence Awards for their work on the Lower Lake Margaret mini hydro plant.

Photo: Honourable Peter Underwood AC, Govenor of Tasmania, Anthony Hobson, Hydro Tasmania, Stuart Sale JMG Consultaing, Paul Coull, Tyco Tamar & Greg Walters, President Tasmanian Institute of Engineers.

Photo: The partially completed hydro turbine inside Tyco Tamar's Exeter facility.

The project, which cost approximately $13 million, was completed in June 2010 as part of the Lower Lake Margaret Redevelopment Scheme.

Tyco Tamar; a division of Tyco Pumping Systems was recognised for their excellent project management, high quality design and installation work that resulted in the project being completed within the agreed schedule, scope and budget. Tyco Tamar's role in the project included the design, manufacture, testing, installation and commissioning of a 3.2MW mini hydro plant including a Turgo impulse turbine, generator, electrical and control systems and ancillary equipment. The plant will contribute 22GW hours per annum of clean renewable energy to the Tasmanian electricity grid.

Photo: Inside the Lower Lake Margaret mini hydro plant.

Tyco Tamar maintained an excellent working relationship with Hydro Tasmania throughout the project and continues to maintain that relationship by assisting them with ongoing training and integration of the mini hydro plant. Tamar Hydro Turbines Product Manager, Paul Coull said of the project "Lower Lake Margaret was extremely challenging in terms of project timeframe, site logistics and weather conditions plus there were sensitive heritage and environmental values to consider. Despite the challenges, an excellent relationship was maintained with the other contractors and the project principle."