Download the Intro Wind and Water Power - Term 3, 2009
What you will do
Head to Fiordland to explore electrical energy generation at the Manapouri Hydro Station. Go deep underground in the south-western arm of Lake Manapouri to see the huge turbines up close. Ask experts about the environmental aspects involved in running a hydro station in such an environmentally sensitive area. Take a look at wind generation at the White Hill wind farm 6km south-east of Mossburn. Find out why this site is ideal for electrical energy generation. Climb to the top of the giant wind turbines to discover how the energy in wind is converted to electrical energy. Find out how the two power stations connect to your home via the National Grid.
Where you will go
Manapouri Hydro Station is located within the Fiordland National Park, a World Heritage Area. The hydro station was built deep underground and takes advantage of the natural 178 metre height difference between Lake Manapouri and the sea at Deep Cove in Doubtful Sound. Meridian's White Hill wind farm is sited on an area of mostly forestry land approximately eight kilometres by three kilometres. It began producing electrical energy in 2006 and its 29 turbines produce enough power for approximately 30,000 homes.
Curriculum
Science: Physical World Levels 5-8
What Now
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