The Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro Project in Queensland has hit a significant milestone, with over 5 kilometres of core samples collected from more than 50 boreholes.
Queensland Premier Steven Miles announced the achievement, marking progress in the state government’s ambitious energy initiative.
Queensland Hydro, the publicly owned energy company overseeing the project, has confirmed the presence of structurally solid granite throughout the site. This finding is crucial for the project’s viability and future operations.
The project aims to store excess energy from Australia’s high levels of household solar, making it available during peak usage times and when renewable sources are not generating power. It’s expected to play a vital role in Queensland’s efforts to meet its renewable energy and emissions reduction targets.
Minister for Energy and Clean Economy Jobs Mick de Brenni said the pumped hydro is the powerhouse solution for energy storage, promising lower bills and cheaper electricity when and where it’s needed most.
“Mackay locals are already reaping the benefits of the clean energy boom Pioneer-Burdekin will deliver, with thousands of dollars of investment supercharging the local economy each week,” he said.
Economic benefits are already being felt in the region. Twin Hills Engineering and Drilling, the local company conducting the geotechnical work, reports injecting over $20,000 weekly into the Mackay economy through project-related purchases.
Independent modelling suggests that Queensland’s north and outback regions could see a $240 billion boost and 84,000 additional jobs if the state achieves its NetZero target by 2050. The project itself is anticipated to create thousands of jobs and significantly boost the local Mackay economy.
Environmental benefits are also expected to be considerable. Queensland Hydro’s analysis indicates that the project could directly avoid up to seven million tonnes of CO2 emissions annually.
The project has garnered significant interest from potential suppliers, with nearly 600 Australian businesses, including over 60 from the local region, registering their interest in participating.
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