BOM's Weather Forecasts
NEMforecast also updates weather forecast data for large population centers in NEM states. This data is accessed from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM):
The BOM asks that we point you in the direction of their disclaimer:
http://www.bom.gov.au/other/disclaimer.shtml
NEMforecast updates the temperature (max and min) forecasts for the next few days. These temperature updates include the maximum and
minimum temperature for many major locations around the NEM states and are on a map of the country for ease of use.
Temperature has several impacts on the operations of the NEM:
- Obviously, the level of demand for electricity varies with temperature (in the hotter months, high temperatures increase the demand for, and loading of, air-conditioning units for both business and residential sectors, whilst in the colder months, colder temperatures will increase the demand for, and loading of, electrical heating);
- In addition, higher temperatures tend to reduce the efficiencies (and maximum capabilities) of thermal power stations because of the increased difficulties faced in cooling feed-water temperatures sufficiently.
As such, the weather forecast updated by the BOM proves a useful addition to NEMMCO's ST PASA forecast. Specifically, they can help you decide whether a day in question will be closer to the 10% POE demand forecast than the 50% POE demand forecast (eg. if it is extra hot in summer).
