”We are delighted to partner with BE Power. Together, we're poised to make a significant positive impact on Australia's renewable energy future.
Fabian SommerManaging Director Lombardi Engineering Australia
The Big G project is a large-scale pumped hydro energy storage (PHES) project strategically located near Mount Alma in Gladstone, Queensland, within the Renewable Energy Zone 6 (REZ6). Positioned approximately 55km from the high electricity demand centre of Gladstone, this ambitious project features an 800MW capacity that can operate for up to 12 hours daily.
The site was specifically selected for its natural topography, which offers a significant height differential of 290 meters between two reservoirs spaced just 1.75 kilometers apart. This allows for highly efficient energy storage and generation, maximizing gravitational potential energy without the need for extensive infrastructure.
Moreover, Big G plays a crucial role in the decentralisation of the National Electricity Market (NEM), facilitating the transition from aging baseload coal power plants to more sustainable and asynchronous renewable power sources such as solar and wind, enhancing the energy reliability of the Gladstone region.
2.3
Estimated project cost ($AU bn)
800
Power station capacity
2027
Estimated construction start
PROJECT OVERVIEW
The Big G Project features a complex hydroelectric layout designed for efficient energy generation and storage. The layout includes:
- Reservoirs: There are two upper reservoirs, each impounded by a combination of valley and saddle dams at high elevations to harness gravitational potential energy. A single lower reservoir, constructed using a turkey-nest type dam, is located at a lower elevation and functions as the storage area for water during off-peak energy periods.
- Power Station Complex (PSC): This underground facility houses four 200 MW fixed-speed reversible Francis pump-turbine units. It includes separate powerhouse and transformer caverns linked by busbar galleries.
- Waterways: The project incorporates underground water conveyance systems, consisting of intakes/outlets, tunnels lined with concrete or steel, and surge facilities, facilitating the movement of water between the reservoirs and the power station.
- Grid and Water Connections: A switchyard near the PSC connects the station to the high-voltage transmission grid through either a 9km or 5km link, which has yet to be finalised. Additionally, a 15km water pipeline is planned to connect the lower reservoir to the ACP pipeline for initial fill and annual water top-ups.
- Access Tunnels: The design incorporates main access and emergency egress tunnels to facilitate safe and efficient maintenance and operational activities within the underground Power Station Complex (PSC). These tunnels are crucial for ensuring continuous access for personnel and equipment and for emergency responses, enhancing the operational integrity and safety of the facility.
DEVELOPMENT STATUS
In partnership with Lombardi, a concept study for the Big G Project has been delivered, highlighting significant potential for the initiative. The project is advancing in securing the necessary permits and approvals, with engagement initiated with the Office of Coordinator General and the environmental studies required for compiling the Initial Advice Statement (IAS). This stage is a precursor to lodging the IAS to achieve coordinated project status and to secure the Terms of Reference for the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).
A geotechnical site investigation plan is being developed, which will inform the subsequent environmental studies and enable further advancement of the engineering design, providing more precise cost estimates and opportunities for design optimisation.
An application has been lodged with the Gladstone Area Water Board (GAWB), and pipeline pre-feasibility has been completed with Sunwater. The dialogue is ongoing regarding the water licence with GAWB, including the examination of the Sunwater term sheet and feasibility study.
Support for grid connectivity has been received from Powerlink in the form of a letter endorsing two viable options. This endorsement is crucial for submitting the grid connection application and selecting the appropriate equipment for ongoing grid connection studies.
Preliminary studies in the field of Indigenous heritage have been conducted, with plans to develop a comprehensive cultural heritage management plan. This commitment to cultural heritage is indicative of the project’s dedication to responsible and inclusive development.
PROJECT ENQUIRIES
Enquiries: enquiries@bepower.com.au
Project hotline: 1800 853 280
