Expression of Interest open for Borumba Project’s largest exploratory works package.

Queensland Hydro is taking a major step forward with the release of an Expression of Interest for contractors looking to be involved in the Borumba Pumped Hydro Project.

The Underground Works - Tunnel Drilling package – the most significant package to date – is seeking interest from suitably qualified contractors who can design and construct an exploratory tunnel at the Project site, located near Imbil, southwest of Gympie.

The EOI marks a new phase of the critical exploratory works phase for the Borumba Project. Queensland Hydro is undertaking a robust exploratory works program, designed to run from late-2023 until mid-2026. The Project is targeting first power in 2030.

The Tunnel Drilling package will help gather geological, geotechnical and hydrogeological data to confirm the proposed location for the underground powerhouse and transformers caverns. If the Borumba Project proceeds, the temporary tunnel will likely be converted into one of the access tunnels required in the project design.

Proponents interested in submitting an Expression of Interest are invited to do so via QTenders. A link to the EOI can be found here or by searching “CONBUR0236EOI” on QTenders.

Procurement for the Underground Works - Tunnel Drilling package will be undertaken in two phases:

• In Phase 1, prospective suppliers are encouraged to submit at EOI through QTenders prior to 4 December 2023.
• In Phase 2, proponents who meet the eligibility criteria outlined in the EOI process will be shortlisted, and those successful will be invited to submit a Request for Proposal (RFP). The RFP phase will open in February 2024.

The contract will be awarded in August 2024 with work set to commence in November 2024. Work on the exploratory tunnel drilling package will only occur if and when Queensland Hydro receives all necessary environmental and planning approvals.

Queensland Hydro has been working with industry to ensure we can attract the best partners for the project while creating opportunities for local and Indigenous businesses. We will work with the successful contractor to maximise these opportunities, particularly for local and Indigenous-owned businesses and workers.

To keep up to date with supplier opportunities, register your interest on ICN Gateway.

During the Request for Proposal (RFP) stage, Queensland Hydro will be using best practice principles from the Queensland Procurement Policy 2023 which includes a requirement to demonstrate commitments to local job creation, apprenticeship and training opportunities and local buying.

Read more about the Borumba Pumped Hydro Project here.

First published 3 November 2023.