Queensland’s largest hydro power station will undergo a $17 million overhaul to ensure it continues to operate safely and reliably while delivering clean power for generations.

Major maintenance works have started at the publicly-owned Wivenhoe Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Power Station this month, creating 100 jobs under the Palaszczuk Government’s Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan.

Wivenhoe Pumped Hydro Power Station has two massive 285MW turbines and these planned maintenance works take place every five years which is critical for the long-term reliability of Queensland’s only existing pumped hydro facility.

Publicly owned CleanCo is being supported by the specialised workforce at Downer to undertake these works, and where possible is engaging local businesses to support the delivery of this important work.

Queensland Assistant Minister and Member for Bundamba Lance McCallum said: “Wivenhoe is incredibly important for our plan to deliver cleaner, cheaper, more secure energy – as Queensland’s only current pumped storage hydroelectric power station it’s a fast ramping, flexible energy generator that is setting us up for 70 per cent renewable energy by 2032.

“By undertaking significant maintenance on one turbine at a time, the Wivenhoe Pumped Hydro can continue to operate throughout the overhaul period, providing reliable low-emission energy to the grid.

“Our Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan is developing two mega clean energy pumped hydro projects in regional Queensland, Borumba west of the Sunshine Coast and Pioneer-Burdekin west of Mackay.

“Our plan also invests in skills, training and support for both our existing energy sector workforce and creating the new jobs and careers of tomorrow.”