The exploratory works will gather critical geotechnical data to progress design development and the revised business case, pending state approvals.
Queensland Hydro executive chair Mark Irwin said the Borumba project was a critical component of the state’s future energy mix, and the commonwealth regulatory approval was a significant step forward in its development.
“The proposed exploratory works will support the revised business case for the Borumba Project, with data collected able to support any future configuration,” he said.
“Delivering major infrastructure projects requires meticulous planning to avoid unforeseen risks. One of the most effective strategies for achieving this is undertaking comprehensive exploratory works before finalising designs and commencing future main works construction activities.
If the project proceeds to main works construction, it will require further commonwealth and state approvals.
The Borumba Pumped Hydro project, located at Lake Borumba, 180km north of Brisbane, will provide up to 2,00MW of electricity for 24 hours with a storage capacity of 48,000MWh. It will include an underground power station and pump turbines, and underground tunnels to transfer water between the upper and lower reservoirs, as well as cable and access tunnels.
