Development at existing sites | Building Borumba
In a significant leap towards Queensland’s renewable energy goals, the state government has awarded nearly $190 million in major works packages for the Borumba Pumped Hydro Project. This ambitious 2000MW renewable energy initiative is set to revolutionize long-duration energy storage in Australia, providing the backbone for Queensland’s transition to a clean energy system
Right: The existing lower reservoir (Lake Borumba) will be expanded with a new dam wall downstream from the current Borumba Dam. A second reservoir will be constructed at a higher altitude
THE BORUMBA PUMPED HYDRO Project, located west of the Sunshine Coast, is a $14.2 billion investment in Queensland’s energy future. With a capacity to generate up to 2000MW of electricity for up to 24 hours at a time, it represents a cornerstone in Australia’s shift towards renewable energy. This project is not just a feat of engineering; it’s a testament to Queensland’s commitment to a sustainable future and its position as a leader in renewable energy innovation.
Key contracts awarded Three major works packages have been awarded to
Queensland-based companies, marking a significant milestone in the project’s development: Dams Designer Delivery Partner: Water2Wire Joint Venture (JV) has been appointed with packages totaling $40 million to advance the design and engineering of both the upper and lower reservoirs. Pumped Hydro Energy Storage (PHES) Designer: AFRY-Aurecon JV secured a $39.9 million contract for this crucial component. Worker Accommodation: Decmil has been awarded a contract of approximately $111 million to design and construct two temporary worker camps on the project site.
These contracts not only signify progress in the project’s development but also demonstrate the government’s commitment to leveraging local expertise and boosting the Queensland economy.
Dams design: a collaborative effort Water2Wire JV, a collaboration between GHD, Mott
MacDonald, and Stantec, will lead the engineering and design for the project’s seven proposed dams. This includes six new dams to form a new upper reservoir
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and one new dam wall and spillway downstream from the existing Borumba Dam. Mark Cordell, Water2Wire Borumba Pumped
Hydro Project Director and Market Leader, Dams and Hydropower at Stantec, expressed the joint venture’s commitment: “The Water2Wire joint venture is honoured to be selected as Dams Designer for the Upper and Lower Borumba Dams, bringing global expertise to this local project. “In addition, many of our Water2Wire team live and
work regionally, which will help build knowledge and deliver lasting benefits to local communities, as well as the wider economy.”
Technical challenges and innovations The design of seven dams presents unique challenges
that require innovative solutions. The team will need to consider factors such as: Geological conditions of the site Environmental impact and mitigation measures Seismic resilience Integration with existing infrastructure Optimization of water flow for maximum energy efficiency
The Water2Wire JV brings together a wealth of experience in dam design and hydropower projects, ensuring that these challenges are met with cutting- edge solutions.
PHES design: bringing global expertise The AFRY-Aurecon JV brings together international
and Australian expertise to deliver the design works for the project. AFRY contributes over 125 years of hydropower expertise, while Aurecon brings nearly a century of experience in mega infrastructure projects.
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