Borumba
About the Project
The proposed Borumba Project is being developed as a joint energy and water security project at Lake Borumba and surrounding areas between Imbil and Jimna, west of the Sunshine Coast.
The site was identified in the 1980s as having significant potential for pumped hydro due to its topography, existing reservoir and geological characteristics. The proposed Project site is on State land and on the traditional Country of the Kabi Kabi People.
Pumped hydro energy storage has been used around the world for more than a century. It is a proven technology that stores energy when it is available and generates electricity when it is needed, helping support a reliable and secure electricity system.
Lake Borumba is already used for water supply for both South-East Queensland and the Gympie region. Water is released from Borumba into Yabba Creek, which flows into the Mary River, and is subsequently used for both potable water supply and irrigation.
Proposed to be a multi-generational asset, the Borumba Project is being assessed as part of Queensland’s future infrastructure needs. The Project is currently being considered alongside broader energy and water security needs to understand how it could support Queensland’s long-term needs.
Understanding the Project staging
Large infrastructure projects are developed in stages. Before any decision can be made about future construction, extensive investigations, planning, environmental studies and approvals are required.
The proposed Borumba Project is currently in the investigation and planning phase. Information gathered through these activities helps improve understanding of the site, inform project design and support future government decision-making.
Exploratory works
Exploratory works are investigations that help Queensland Hydro better understand the proposed Project area and site conditions.
These activities include geotechnical investigations, environmental studies, site investigations, road upgrades and supporting infrastructure. The information collected helps inform future planning, design, environmental assessments and business case development.
Main works
Main works refers to a future stage of construction of the pumped hydro scheme itself.
If approved, this would include infrastructure such as reservoirs, tunnels, an underground power station and supporting infrastructure. Main works have not commenced and would be subject to separate regulatory approvals and Government decisions before they could proceed.
Visit the links below for more information on current works and approvals.
