Wivenhoe Pumped Hydro Power Station to be overhauled with $48m investment

The Wivenhoe Pumped Hydro Power Station is set to get an overhaul and the Queensland Government will invest more than $48 million for major works to help secure reliable, affordable and sustainable energy for Queenslanders. 

This investment is part of the State Government’s plan for Queensland’s future by providing water and energy security. 

The funding commitment will ensure the power station’s 285MW turbines will be overhauled over the next two years to maintain its reliability and efficiency. 

The Wivenhoe Pumped Hydro Power Station had its record-breaking performance in the last financial year when it generated over 218MWh in the fourth quarter alone, which is its highest quarterly output in its 40-year history. 

“CleanCo is the custodian of Queensland’s only operational pumped hydro at Wivenhoe, and we’re proud to be getting more out of this asset than ever before. 

“In the last year we’ve achieved record generation from Wivenhoe, and these maintenance works will make sure the station can keep delivering at the level well into the future. 

“We’re also progressing work at Mount Rawdon, because smaller, more manageable pumped hydro is central to Queensland’s energy future and directly aligned with the Crisafulli Government’s priorities to deliver reliable, affordable and sustainable energy,” CleanCo CEO Tom Metcalfe said. 

The Crisafulli Government is delivering in the energy sector to primarily support households, businesses and industry across Queensland. 

The five-year Energy Roadmap is set to be handed down by the State Government on 10 October 2025. 

“After a decade of mismanagement under the former Labor Government where maintenance was ignored and power prices were driven up, Queenslanders can be confident we’re investing in the reliability of their energy system. 

“These major works will keep this pumped hydro supporting Queensland’s electricitry network for decades to come. 

“Wivenhoe’s record performance shows the critical role smaller, more manageable pumped hydro plays in providing affordable and reliable energy. 

“Alongside this, thanks to an initial $50 million investment by the Crisafulli Government, CleanCo is investigating the feasibility of pumped hydro at Mount Rawdon, repurposing the existing gold mine into a sustainable energy asset,” Treasurer and Minister for Energy David Janetzki said. 

Source: Queensland Government – Media Statement; Renew Economy; southburnett.com.au