EnergyAustralia and EDF to develop Aussie pumped hydro project

Its capacity is enough to power over 250,000 homes.

EnergyAustralia and EDF power solutions Australia have signed a deal to co-develop the Lake Lyell Pumped Hydro Energy Storage project (LLPHES) in Lithgow.

According to EnergyAustralia, the project can produce 385 megawatts (MW) of dispatchable energy that is enough for over 250,000 homes in New South Wales (NSW) for up to 8 hours.

To support the development of the project, the companies have created a joint venture, with EDF Australia acquiring a 75% equity interest. EnergyAustralia will retain first rights to the power offtake for LLPHES.

The project is working towards its Environmental Impact Statement submission in 2025, with Final Investment Decision targeted for late 2026.