Drone photo supplied by Rockwell Drilling of our remote camp set up with accommodation, catered kitchen, shower block, and generator for 20 people.
Pumped hydro, with its long-duration energy storage capacity, is set to play a crucial role in achieving Australia’s emissions reduction, clean energy and net zero targets. As coal-fired power stations retire, more wind and solar will power the national grid, creating a growing need for energy storage to ‘firm’ these variable, intermittent renewables.
By providing crucial long-term storage and grid support, Alinta Energy’s Oven Mountain Pumped Hydro Energy Storage project aims to supercharge the potential of the New England REZ and support a reliable, resilient and renewable energy future for NSW.
The 900 MW off-stream project can generate electricity for up to 12 hours by running stored water downhill through reversible turbines into a lower reservoir, then pumping the water 600m back uphill when wind and solar power is abundant.
WSP’s Craig Curnow, Project Director, says that the challenging project is a perfect fit for WSP, with its extensive experience across all facets and phases of pumped hydro developments.
“Our teams have diverse expertise and are able to work across many aspects of the project including ground engineering, groundwater, the underground cavern, civil and transport logistics, ecology, community engagement and more,” he says.
“Properly understanding the geology, water and geotechnical conditions is fundamental to the success of pumped hydro projects,” says Craig, “and can reduce the risk of unforeseen issues causing delays and cost overruns later.”
“We won this project because we listened to the client and understood their goals. We then helped them better understand what needed to be done and how to get started. They knew they could trust WSP to deliver.”
Getting boots on the ground
The team leapt into action to get the work underway, including setting up a work camp in remote, rugged terrain.
Claudia Woodley, Senior Associate Engineering Geologist, was one of three site managers. She says “We started planning for mobilisation as soon as we heard we’d won the project, engaging the right people from key disciplines to bring their expertise to assist with planning and the important health and safety aspects of working remotely.”
“Health and safety risks are always a major part of project work and we take them very seriously so that we can keep our people safe,” she says.
The team developed robust emergency management protocols, including what to do in extreme hot weather and in fire situations.
They are engaging with local contractors, such as earthworks and helicopter operators, to set up the remote camp. In addition, they are working with national park representatives on environmental controls to avoid introducing any pests or weeds to the site.
“I’m really looking forward to seeing everything come together,” says Claudia. “It’s exciting and fulfilling to know we’re playing a part in building a more sustainable energy future.”
Craig agrees, saying “We always want these projects to move rapidly and smoothly to completion, especially given the urgency of the energy transition. Major site investigations, such as this, are a key enabler.”
“I’m proud that our people are so committed to long-lasting clean energy solutions that will make a better future,” he says. “Thanks to the team who contributed to winning and delivering this project.”
Tim Wollen, Engineering Geologist, at the Oven Mountain Pumped Hydro project site
For more information on how WSP can support your projects in renewables or energy storage, please contact Craig Curnow, Pumped Hydro Sector Lead, and Felicity Galluzzo, Director of Energy.
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