Image courtesy of Queensland Hydro
The Borumba Pumped Hydro Project is a large-scale pumped hydro energy storage system at Lake Borumba, located southwest of Gympie. The scheme will provide the long-duration energy storage needed to transform Queensland’s energy system, achieve the state’s renewable energy targets, and unlock its potential in renewables.
Due to the project’s scale and significance, Queensland Hydro needs to carry out an extensive program of exploratory works to understand the geology of the area and the potential project impacts on design and construction.
“Understanding the soil and rock types, subsurface conditions and groundwater levels at the site is essential to inform the engineering requirements for the dam foundations, tunnels and underground power station,” said Cristian Loddo, WSP Project Manager.
WSP’s scope will include administration of the geotechnical investigation program, interface management between the geotechnical drilling contractors and engineering designers, compliance management, independent assurance and technical oversight, in-situ testing and sampling, and core storage and management.
WSP Australia will draw on the expertise of its earth and environment team of more than 1,000 staff, including approximately 400 geotechnical and tunnelling specialists – Australia’s largest group of geotechnical professionals. Teaming with AECOM and Douglas Partners will further increase capacity, expertise and local presence.
“We will bring a multi-disciplinary team of specialists with unmatched expertise in undertaking large-scale, technically complex geotechnical investigations in regional areas and remote locations with limited existing infrastructure, and requiring interaction with a range of stakeholders,” said Cristian Loddo.
“WSP’s in-depth understanding and expertise in ground behaviour and how geology, groundwater and environmental considerations influence design and construction perfectly complements AECOM’s geotechnical capability across investigation and design and Douglas Partners’ experience in large-scale investigations.
“With this deep pool of local experts to call on, we have the capacity to deploy quickly, ramp up and down to adapt to changing resource needs, and provide significant local presence and a unique understanding of Queensland Hydro’s challenges.”
Exploratory investigations and support works will be conducted throughout 2024 and 2025, concurrently with the project’s environmental impact assessment and regulatory approvals processes for main works.
“We are eager to support Queensland Hydro to identify project risks, strategies for value engineering, and environmental opportunities so that the Borumba Pumped Hydro Project can be delivered successfully and operate reliably for many generations,” said Craig Curnow, WSP Pumped Hydro Sector Lead.
“WSP has already developed strong working relationships with Queensland Hydro as a trusted advisor on the proposed Pioneer-Burdekin Project, and we look forward to continuing to support Queensland Hydro on this highly significant project.
“Enabling renewable, secure, reliable and affordable energy is a vital contribution to a Future Ready Queensland and a more sustainable future,” said Craig Curnow.
The Borumba Pumped Hydro Project is expected to be capable of dispatching 2,000 MW and storing up to 24 hours of energy, with the capacity to supply electricity to up to 2.3 million Queensland homes. It is targeting first power in 2030.
If you would like to find out more about how WSP can help you with your pumped hydro project please contact Craig Curnow, Pumped Hydro Sector Lead.
