Zen Energy plant to turn Australia mining site into pumped hydro project

The construction is projected to begin in 2027 and start operations by 2031.

Zen Energy is proposing to convert degraded coal industry land at Nattai on the escarpment above Lake Burragorang, the biggest water storage in Sydney into a pumped hydro project.

In a statement, Zen Energy said the proposed one-gigawatt Western Sydney Pumped Hydro project could deliver on-demand electricity that is equivalent to 500,000 homes and businesses.

The project can also store and supply up to eight continuous hours of “firming” energy that will stabilise New South Wales’ electricity grid and power prices.

“The vast water reserves of Lake Burragorang can supply Sydneysiders with clean drinking water and clean, renewable energy as well,” said ZEN CEO Anthony Garnaut.

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“Large-scale energy storage projects like Western Sydney Pumped Hydro are key to keeping the lights on and energy prices in check in NSW as our coal-fired power stations age and retire over the next decade.”

ZEN Energy said around $651,000 (A$1m) annual Community Benefit Scheme will be created for the project which will provide 1,500 jobs during construction and 80 operation jobs.

The company said it will conduct studies, consultation and co-design the project with traditional owners, local residents and other stakeholders.

$1 = A$1.53