Television Update – September 2026

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4G interference and household television reception

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Following extensive technical investigations in Taralga, Pacific Hydro identified that the 4G signal transmitted from the local mobile phone tower was interfering with television reception at some properties. This interference does not originate from Taralga Wind Farm or its television retransmission equipment. The most effective solution identified was a 4G filter fitted to the household television aerial system. As a gesture of goodwill, Pacific Hydro funded the installation of these filters, together with necessary aerial and cabling repairs, at a number of properties with which we had been regularly engaging.

If you are experiencing television reception issues that may be caused by 4G interference, please contact us. We can provide the details of an antenna contractor who may be able to assess your individual situation and advise whether a 4G filter or other repairs are appropriate.

Temporary changeover to satellite television

Pacific Hydro’s television retransmission tower ordinarily receives the local broadcast signal from the Knights Hill tower near Wollongong. During periods of inclement weather or atmospheric ducting, this incoming signal may become temporarily unstable. Atmospheric ducting is a weather-related phenomenon that can cause distant television signals to travel farther than usual and interfere with the signal the tower is trying to receive.

When this occurs, our equipment automatically changes over to the national satellite backup service used across regional and remote Australia. This ensures residents can continue to receive television services, consistent with our planning permit obligations. We understand that the Taralga community prefers local programming. Once stable reception from Knights Hill returns, the system automatically returns to the local broadcast.

Pacific Hydro does not control the signal available from Knights Hill. However, significant replacement and upgrade works completed in late 2025 have improved the ability of our equipment to receive and retransmit that signal as reliably as possible, reducing how often the satellite backup service is required.

For further information about mobile phone tower interference, 4G filters and atmospheric ducting, visit the Australian Communications and Media Authority’s guidance on television reception problems and solutions.

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