Queensland Hydro is ramping up community involvement in the proposed Borumba Pumped Hydro Project, offering local residents, business owners, and community advocates new opportunities to shape the development process.
The ambitious project, set to generate the first power in 2030, is expected to create thousands of jobs during peak construction and significantly boost the local economy.
To ensure comprehensive community input, Queensland Hydro has opened an Expression of Interest (EOI) for three key initiatives: the reformed Stakeholder Reference Group, newly established focus groups, and the Community Benefits Panel.
Queensland Hydro CEO Kieran Cusack emphasised the company’s commitment to community engagement, stating: “We care about our communities and stakeholders and want them to have a say in the process to shape our proposed projects. We’ll work closely and transparently with the community to honour the diverse perspectives and local knowledge they bring.”
The Community Benefits Panel, established following the launch of a draft Community Benefits Framework in February, will oversee a $5 million initial investment.
This funding will support local mountain bike and walking trails, progress plans for a second stage of the Mary Valley rail trail, and contribute to the development of an Imbil Master Plan.
The three initiatives include:
- Stakeholder Reference Group (SRG): A consultative body facilitating transparent, two-way engagement on various project aspects, including environmental assessments and project design.
- Focus Groups: Designed for in-depth discussions on specific topics, ensuring diverse perspectives are shared.
- Community Benefits Panel: An independent group reviewing and recommending funding applications, ensuring community-driven decision-making.
Interested individuals can submit their EOI by July 21, 2024, through an online registration form. The selection process, overseen by Queensland Hydro representatives and an independent facilitator, aims to ensure a balanced representation of ages, backgrounds, and interests.
The Borumba Pumped Hydro Project, a 2,000 MW energy storage system located near Imbil, is a critical component of Queensland’s renewable energy strategy.
With $6 billion in government funding announced in June 2023, the project is currently undergoing early works and seeking regulatory approvals.
As the project moves forward, Queensland Hydro continues to prioritise stakeholder engagement, aiming to deliver optimal outcomes for both Queensland as a whole and the local communities affected by the development.
