Gamuda-Ferrovial JV Secures Deal for Capricornia Hydroelectric Project
Petaling Jaya: A New Milestone in Renewable Energy
Gamuda Bhd, in a joint venture with Ferrovial (GFJV), has inked an early contractor involvement (ECI) agreement with Capricornia Energy Hub (CEH) for its Capricornia pumped hydroelectric storage system (PHES) in Central Queensland, Australia.
About Capricornia Energy Hub
CEH is owned by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), one of the world’s largest clean energy investors.
Early Contractor Involvement Phase
The ECI phase is expected to take around five months to develop an engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract to deliver the PHES. Construction of PHES is expected to begin in 2026 and would create an estimated 600 jobs during peak construction and 65 local jobs during commercial operations.
About the Project
The PHES, located approximately 80km west of Mackay in Central Queensland, would play an important role in Queensland’s future energy mix and provide affordable and reliable energy for around 900,000 Queensland homes. The system includes a 750MW pump and a generation facility capable of delivering power continuously for 16 hours. With a total storage capacity of 12GWh, the system would include an upper off-stream reservoir and a lower reservoir which is approximately 5km downstream from the existing Eungella dam.
CEO Comments
Gamuda CEO Ewan Yee said the landmark project underscores its commitment to Queensland’s renewable energy future while expanding its presence across Australia. CEH CEO John Carr said the appointment of ECI partners is a significant milestone for Capricornia Energy Hub as it allows them to draw on Gamuda’s and Ferrovial’s expertise to design a cost-effective pumped hydro. “We look forward to working with our ECI partners and their strong regional networks to unlock more opportunities for local contractors and support the local supply chain,” he said.
Conclusion
The Gamuda-Ferrovial JV’s securing of the deal for the Capricornia hydroelectric project marks a significant milestone in the development of renewable energy in Queensland. The project’s focus on providing affordable and reliable energy for thousands of homes highlights the importance of investing in clean energy solutions.
FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of the Capricornia pumped hydroelectric storage system (PHES)?
A: The PHES will provide affordable and reliable energy for around 900,000 Queensland homes.
Q: What is the expected timeline for the construction of the PHES?
A: Construction is expected to begin in 2026.
Q: How many jobs will the PHES create during peak construction and commercial operations?
A: The PHES will create an estimated 600 jobs during peak construction and 65 local jobs during commercial operations.
Q: Who owns Capricornia Energy Hub (CEH)?
A: CEH is owned by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), one of the world’s largest clean energy investors.