Geotechnical drilling at the proposed site for the Pioneer-Burdekin pumped hydro storage project has delivered highly promising results, boosting the prospects for the ambitious renewable energy initiative.
The drilling, conducted by local company Twin Hills Engineering, has uncovered high-quality granite rock that is ideal for dam construction, tunnels, and potentially multiple underground powerhouses.
According to investigations by WSP and SMEC, the coarse, competent granite is exceptionally strong, offering significant advantages for the project.
Notably, the geological conditions at the Pioneer-Burdekin site are considerably less complex than those encountered in the Snowy Hydro 2.0 project, with only two main rock types identified compared to over 20 at the Snowy site.
This simplified geology could potentially lead to faster project delivery and higher power output.
Minister Mick de Brenni, a strong proponent of the project, expressed his enthusiasm for the findings, stating: “The quality of these core samples upholds the many years of preliminary assessments the government has done across multiple locations, and is another win for Queensland’s Energy and Jobs Plan.”
Queensland Hydro CEO Kieran Cusack highlighted the importance of conducting thorough investigations to ensure a well-informed business case.
“Our geotechnical investigations have shown very promising, high-strength, highly competent granite throughout the proposed project site. We are encouraged by the results of the geotechnical investigations conducted so far,” he said.
Cusack further emphasised that the detailed data obtained from these investigations could lead to an improved project schedule and a broader range of design options, ultimately benefitting the overall project delivery.
Minister de Brenni reiterated the Miles Government’s commitment to renewable energy, stating: “The new Miles government knows the future is in renewables, and this key project will mean Queensland will meet its newly legislated renewable energy targets — the targets that the LNP refused to enshrine into law.”
The Pioneer-Burdekin Renewable Hydro Power Project is set to be the largest water battery of its kind in the world, storing surplus renewable energy to power Queensland during periods of high demand and scarce supply, thereby helping to drive down electricity prices for households.
With the promising geotechnical results and the government’s unwavering support, the project appears poised to make significant strides in Queensland’s transition to a sustainable energy future.