Pumped Hydro-electric Energy Storage (PHES) and Transmission Project

The Capricornia Energy Hub pumped hydro-electric energy storage is a proposed 750MW pump/generation facility with a storage capacity of 16 hours. The project is located approximately 80km west of Mackay on two large rural landholdings near the existing Eungella Dam.

Ideally located in North Queensland Renewable Energy Zone, the PHES project will includetwo reservoirs: the upper being a valley fill reservoir and the lower being an in-stream reservoir in the Broken River, connecting waterways, one underground powerhouse and 18 km of new transmission lines. The Capricornia PHES will connect to the existing high voltage transmission line from Strathmore to Nebo via a substation and 18km of new transmission line.

Project benefits

The PHES and associated infrastructure will create approximately 600 jobs during peak construction and 65 jobs during operations.

The project will contribute toward local, state and federal government policies and goals relating to greenhouse gas reduction, renewable energy generation, the transformation of the electricity network, affordable energy and local employment.

Project status

The Capricornia Pumped Hydroelectric Scheme is now a Coordinated Project. You can learn about what that means on the Office of the Coordinator-General website here.

Have a questions about the proposed project, the approvals process, or how the project team are engaging with the community? Visit our frequently asked questions (FAQ) page.