| Development at existing sites
Knut Sierotzki, Vice President Hydropower Asia/ Pacific & Country Manager Australia at AFRY, emphasized the project’s significance: “The Borumba Pumped Hydro Project will be a game-changer for Queensland and a cornerstone of Australia’s clean energy transition. At AFRY, we are proud to be part of this ambitious project and honoured, alongside our partner Aurecon, to provide our leading hydropower design expertise to bring it to life.”
Innovative design elements The PHES design will incorporate several innovative
elements to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impact: Advanced turbine technology for rapid response to grid demands Sophisticated control systems for optimal operation Fish-friendly designs to protect local aquatic ecosystems Integration with renewable energy sources for pumping operations Measures to reduce evaporation and water loss
These design elements will ensure that the Borumba Pumped Hydro Project sets new standards for efficiency and sustainability in the hydropower industry.
Worker accommodation: prioritizing
community and safety Decmil’s $111 million contract for worker accommodation demonstrates Queensland Hydro’s commitment to minimizing the project’s impact on local communities. The two state-of-the-art temporary camps will house up to 336 workers each, featuring wellness rooms, gym facilities, running tracks, social rooms, and laundry facilities. Queensland Hydro CEO Kieran Cusack explained the rationale behind this approach: “Queensland Hydro is well aware of the potential disruption a project of this scale could have on small regional communities and we are working with them to ensure we get our plans right. In developing our plans, we respect these communities and we are taking the lessons from other projects to ensure we are good neighbours.”
Community engagement and local
benefits The project team has initiated a comprehensive community engagement program to ensure that local voices are heard and concerns are addressed. This includes: Regular community information sessions Establishment of a community reference group Local employment and training initiatives Support for local businesses through procurement policies
Investment in community infrastructure and services By prioritizing community engagement, the Borumba Pumped Hydro Project aims to create lasting positive impacts beyond its role in energy generation.
Project timeline and impact The main works phase of the Borumba Pumped Hydro
Project is scheduled to commence in 2026, subject to regulatory approvals. Queensland Hydro is currently undertaking studies as part of an Environmental Impact Statement.
www.waterpowermagazine.com | October 2024 | 37
Minister for Energy and Clean Economy Jobs Mick
de Brenni highlighted the project’s importance: “This is a huge milestone for one of the most important renewable energy projects anywhere in Australia. This major milestone means we have awarded three major works packages to Queensland-based companies to take forward the design of the reservoirs and the powerhouse.”
Key milestones
2023-2025: Detailed design and environmental studies 2026: Commencement of main works (subject to approvals)
2026-2030: Construction phase 2030: Projected completion and commissioning
of the project The Borumba Pumped Hydro Project is expected to create thousands of jobs and stimulate regional development. It aligns with Queensland’s ambitious goal of transitioning to 80% renewable energy by 2035. The project is set to create: Over 2,000 direct construction jobs Hundreds of ongoing operational and maintenance roles Thousands of indirect jobs in supporting industries Opportunities for skills development and training in renewable energy technologies While the project will have a significant environmental footprint, measures are being taken to minimize and offset impacts: Comprehensive environmental impact assessments
Economic and environmental benefits
Above: Queensland Hydro has awarded AFRY-Aurecon Joint Venture (JV) the Pumped Hydro Energy Storage (PHES) Design contract
Below: Queensland Hydro has awarded Water2Wire JV two contracts for Dams Design
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