Michelle Slater
EnergyAustalia has ramped-down three units at the Yallourn Power Station to minimum load after a small fire broke out in the coal distribution facility at midday today.
An EnergyAustralia spokesperson said the fire was extinguished within 40 minutes with help of an automatic fire deluge system and fire crew.
Fire alarms had immediately alerted the on-site fire services team which promptly attended the scene supported by the Country Fire Authority and Fire Rescue Victoria.
“Employees in the immediate area were evacuated to a safe location while the fire was being extinguished,” the spokesperson said.
“Importantly, all our people are safe and well.”
EnergyAustralia had reduced the three units as a precaution while the conveyor system was being reinstated.
The company expects these units to return to service is this evening, ensuring the equipment is safe to operate in line with WorkSafe Victoria.
One unit remains offline due to a major planned maintenance program.
“There is no risk to energy security as a result of the fire,” the spokesperson said.
“The way all parties managed the situation demonstrates that our emergency services training and technical systems work as intended.
“We continue to closely monitor the situation and a thorough investigation will be conducted.”
