BE Power Submits Application for 9.6GWh Pumped Hydro Project in Queensland

BE Power Group has submitted an application to the Australian Federal Government for approval of its 9.6GWh Big-G pumped hydro energy storage (PHES) project in Queensland under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act.

The proposed 800MW Big-G PHES project, located in the Gladstone region of Queensland, will utilize a closed-loop system with two reservoirs connected via a tunnel. The project will feature four 200MW fixed-speed reversible Francis pump-turbine units and is expected to provide 12 hours of energy storage.

The project application includes plans for a new privately owned transmission line to connect the project to the National Electricity Market (NEM). BE Power is currently in discussions with Powerlink, the government-owned network operator responsible for delivering Queensland’s Renewable Energy Zones (REZs), to determine the most suitable connection option, considering both overhead and underground lines.

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The EPBC application allows for flexibility in project design, with the possibility of developing the site as a single 800MW PHES or as two separate 400MW PHES units.

The project area will encompass approximately 859 hectares and will require rehabilitation work during the construction phase, which is estimated to take up to six years and involve a peak workforce of 1,000. Construction is scheduled to commence in late 2027.

The Big-G PHES project is part of BE Power’s growing portfolio of Australian pumped hydro projects. The company is also developing the Big-T and Big-S PHES projects in Queensland and Victoria, respectively. In addition, BE Power operates a 12.5MW solar PV power plant and a 15MW gas-fuelled co-generation plant in the Northern Territory, developed in partnership with Merricks Capital.

This application marks a significant step forward for the Big-G PHES project and demonstrates BE Power’s commitment to developing innovative and sustainable energy solutions for Australia.

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