Proposed 1GW pumped hydro storage in QLD to support 2000 regional jobs

The Queensland Government is committed to delivering jobs and reliable energy across the State as it invests $22 million to get works going on detailed design and cost analysis for the proposed Borumba Dam pumped hydro project. 

This project has the potential to become Queensland’s largest pumped hydro station that can power up to 1.5 million homes as well as generate approximately 2,000 regional construction jobs during its delivery. 

“More pumped hydro means more long-term, reliable energy and jobs for Queenslanders. 

“We’re prioritising Borumba because of its existing dam infrastructure, land access and location within the Southern Queensland Renewable Energy Zone. 

“Supporting investment in renewables is part of Queensland’s plan for economic recovery from the global coronavirus pandemic,” Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said. 

The business case for the Borumba Dam pumped hydro project will include detailed engineering and design, hydrological modelling, geological testing, an assessment of environmental impacts and community consultation. 

“We’re investing $22 million to potentially unlock a multi-billion-dollar construction project that would 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,” Treasurer Cameron Dick said. 

The proposed 1GW Borumba Dam pumped hydro facility is anticipated to double the generation capacity as well as triple the storage at Wivenhoe Hydroelectric Station – which was ramped up when the Callide Power Station went offline last month 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. 

“Borumba Dam is already a hub of activity with water skiing, camping, BBQs and picnics on the lake front and this possible expansion will see that grow,” Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen Mick de Brenni said. 

With its deep understanding of the electricity market and experience in delivering large infrastructure, Powerlink will be undertaking the business case – which is expected to take 24 months to complete and submitted to the Government by mid to late 2023. 

Initial works will also be undertaken by Powerlink over the coming months, including stakeholder engagement. The stakeholders include Seqwater, the Department of Environment and Science, local government, local community, environmental groups and Traditional Owners. 

This development will prioritise the conservation of national parks as well as protected areas. In order to do this, Powerlink will be working with First Nations and Conservation groups to look for delivery options and ensure appropriate environmental offsets are identified. 

The Borumba Dam is located approximately 70 kilometres south-west of Noosa, within the Sunshine Coast hinterland. 

Source: Queensland Government – Media Statements; Inside Construction; Queensland Government – Department of Energy and Public Works; PV Magazine Australia