Lonsdale Diesel Power Plant | South Australia Peaking Station

Lonsdale is a diesel power plant located in South Australia, Australia, with a capacity of 20 MW. The facility is owned by Infratil Energy Australia Pty Ltd and is currently operational. As a diesel-fired plant, it serves as a peaking station, providing rapid response to electricity demand fluctuations. The plant operates under Australia's National Electricity Market (NEM) regulations, which set emissions standards and reliability requirements. Diesel plants like Lonsdale are typically used for short-duration generation during peak demand or grid emergencies. The 20 MW capacity places it in the small-scale category for power generation in Australia. Lonsdale plays a role in maintaining grid reliability in South Australia, a state with high renewable energy penetration. Its ability to start quickly makes it valuable for balancing intermittent renewable sources. The plant's environmental footprint is managed through compliance with national emissions guidelines.

Diesel power plants emit CO2, SOx, NOx, and particulate matter. Lonsdale's proximity to Adelaide's urban area may influence local air quality, though its intermittent operation reduces cumulative impact. Australia's regulatory framework, including the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting Act, requires monitoring of emissions. Diesel engines typically have higher emissions per MWh than gas turbines.