| Underground construction Right: Underground construction starts


Right below: Tunnelling works pictured in February 2022


base of the shaft and removed frequently to make sure they don’t block the shaft opening. In previous projects shafts have choked and resulted in the uncontrolled movement of cuttings into the bottom of the shaft, filling the underground works with such force that equipment has been known to be transported up the tunnel drive. The report highlights that good communication between underground and raise bore teams is critical during reaming operations. The appropriate methodology and safety provisions are also required to facilitate removal of the reamer head at the surface. This minimises time and cost as opposed to attempting to lower the reamer head to an underground chamber because, at a depth of 250m depth, the reattachment of drilling strings to lower and then the subsequent removal of these is time-consuming.


References


Kidston Pumped Storage Hydro Project – Lessons Learnt. Author Linda Le. Prepared by Genex power Limited. February 2024. www.arena.gov.au/assets/2024/04/Genex- –-Kidston-Pumped-Storage-Hydro-Project-–- Lessons-Learnt-Report-10.pdf


Kidston Pumped Storage: key facts


The 250MW Kidston Pumped Storage Hydro Project (K2-Hydro) is a landmark renewable energy project and the centerpiece of the Kidston Clean Energy Hub in Far-North Queensland, Australia. This project is a critical component in Australia’s shift towards renewable energy, designed to generate, store, and dispatch power during peak demand periods.


Key Features Nameplate Capacity: 250MW Storage Capacity: 2,000MWh (8 hours of continuous generation) Start-Up Time: Less than 30 seconds Lifespan: 80 years Water Head: 218m (max) - 181m (min) Turbines: 2 reversible turbines (125MW each) Upper Reservoir: Wises Pit (52 hectares) Lower Reservoir: Eldridge Pit (54 hectares)


The Kidston Pumped Hydro Project is the world’s first to repurpose an abandoned gold mine, utilizing Wises and Eldridge pits as its upper and lower reservoirs. This innovative approach reduces capital expenditure by reusing existing mining infrastructure, such as an accommodation camp, airstrip, and water supply systems, resulting in faster construction and lower costs. The Copperfield Dam provides a stable water source for the hydro system via an existing pipeline, further minimizing additional infrastructure needs.


The project is also integrated into the larger Kidston Clean


Energy Hub, which combines large-scale solar, wind energy, and pumped storage hydro. This integration allows for efficient energy generation, storage, and dispatch, providing reliable renewable energy on demand, especially during peak periods. A dedicated transmission line will connect the hub to the National Electricity Market (NEM), enhancing the stability of North Queensland’s grid and providing much-needed system strength. Financially, the project reached contractual close in April 2021, with construction starting in May 2021. The total construction cost is approximately A$777 million, backed by a robust funding package. A 15-year, A$610 million debt facility was secured from the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility, alongside a A$47 million grant from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), and an additional A$3 million of subordinated debt from the Clean Energy Finance Corporation. The project is set for completion by 2025. The economic benefits of the project are considerable, with 900


direct jobs created during the construction phase. Additionally, the project will help Queensland meet its Renewable Energy Targets of 70% by 2032 and 80% by 2035, playing a vital role in Australia’s clean energy future. By combining innovation, integration, and economic value, K2-Hydro is a model for future renewable energy developments. The project is being delivered by leading contractors McConnell


Dowell and John Holland, with Entura providing engineering consultancy.


www.waterpowermagazine.com | November 2024 | 35


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