Queensland's Pioneer-Burdekin pumped hydro energy storage project is gaining momentum as local businesses secure key contracts. The Minister for Energy, Renewables, and Hydrogen, Mick de Brenni, announced that Twin Hills Engineering and Drilling, a local family business from the Mackay region, has been awarded the first geotechnical drilling contract for the project. Additionally, Water2Wire, a Queensland-based joint venture with a strong presence in Mackay, has won the Front-End Engineering and Design (FEED) contract.
The Pioneer-Burdekin project aims to become the largest pumped hydro scheme in the world, delivering clean, reliable, and affordable power supply and storage to Queenslanders. It is part of the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan, which is expected to generate over 3,000 jobs during the construction phase, contributing to the broader $62 billion Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan.
Twin Hills Engineering and Drilling's successful tender for the geotechnical shallow drilling program is a crucial milestone for the project. The data collected from this six-month program will inform the project's design, playing a fundamental role in the development of this nation-building initiative. The project will not only create employment opportunities but also provide a significant boost to the local economy.
Water2Wire's expertise and experience in delivering pumped hydro projects – like Borumba and Kidston – make them a valuable partner for the Pioneer-Burdekin project, Kieran Cusack, CEO, Queensland Hydro said. The joint venture consists of three companies with considerable experience – GHD, Mott MacDonald, and Stantec.
Minister Mick de Brenni emphasized the significance of the Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro Project as the cornerstone of the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan: “The project is poised to offer hundreds of supply chain opportunities, and with application of the Palaszczuk Governments’ signature Buy Queensland Procurement Policy, local businesses like Twin Hills and Water2Wire will be the preferred project partners.”
Julieanne Gilbert, the Member for Mackay, highlighted the positive impact of the project on the local community, stating that it would create business opportunities and thousands of jobs for Mackay residents. She emphasized the role of pumped hydro energy storage and clean energy in driving industrial growth in the region.
