The Queensland Government has announced $22 million for detailed design and cost analysis for a pumped hydro project at Borumba Dam, which is expected to create around 2,000 regional construction jobs.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the project has the potential to be the state’s largest pumped hydro station, powering an estimated 1.5 million homes.
“More pumped hydro means more long-term, reliable energy and jobs for Queenslanders,” the Premier said.
The Queensland Government has been exploring potential sites for pumped hydro since 2017. Borumba has been prioritised because of its existing dam infrastructure, land access and location within the Southern Queensland Renewable Energy Zone.
Treasurer Cameron Dick said the business case will include detailed engineering and design, hydrological modelling, geological testing, an assessment of environmental impacts and community consultation. The initial works could unlock a multi-billion-dollar construction project that could leverage billions more in clean energy investment and support thousands of jobs.
“This is an investment in jobs and renewable power that can be used at any time of the day to feed Queensland consumers and Queensland industry.”
Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen, Mick de Brenni, said at one gigawatt, Borumba will have double the generation and triple the storage of Wivenhoe.
“The benefits of having pumped hydro as part of our diversified energy mix was proven last month when Callide Power Station went offline,” Minister de Brenni said.
“We were able to ramp up the Wivenhoe Hydroelectric Station to provide critical generation support and stabilise the network.”
“Pumped hydro storage is flexible, reliable, and complements renewable energy generation such as solar and wind.”
“That’s why Queensland needs more of it as we progress to 50 per cent renewables by 2030.”
Minister de Brenni added that if Borumba moves ahead, the Commonwealth should contribute to the capital cost.
“We’re talking about nation-building infrastructure,” he said.
“Every other State has had energy projects built by the Commonwealth – Queenslanders deserve their share.”
Publicly-owned electricity transmission company, Powerlink, has been tasked with undertaking the business case, given its understanding of the electricity market and experience delivering very large infrastructure. It is expected to take up to 24 months, with a submission expected to Government by mid-to-end-2023.
Powerlink will undertake initial works in the coming months by engaging with a range of stakeholders, including Seqwater, the Department of Environment and Science, local government, local community, environmental groups and Traditional Owners.
Conservation of national parks and protected areas will be prioritised and Powerlink will be actively working with First Nations and Conservation groups to explore all options and ensure appropriate environmental offsets are identified.