Alinta Energy Advances 900-MW Pumped Hydro Project Design

• Alinta Energy is set to revolutionize renewable energy with the Oven Mountain Pumped Hydro project, partnering with industry leaders to drive sustainable growth in New South Wales.

Alinta Energy is advancing the design of its 900-MW Oven Mountain Pumped Hydro project in New South Wales by partnering with Malaysian firm Gamuda and Spain's Ferrovial Construction as early contractor involvement (ECI) partners. This collaboration aims to streamline project design and initial procurement discussions, moving closer to construction after Alinta submitted an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) in 2023.

The Oven Mountain project, located in the New England Renewable Energy Zone, is positioned to provide eight hours of energy storage, aiding in the transition from coal-fired power to renewable sources in New South Wales. Project director Anthony Wiseman emphasized the importance of assessing costs, constructability, and securing necessary materials and labor before the final investment decision, with construction anticipated to take five years.

How will Alinta Energy's partnerships impact the Oven Mountain Pumped Hydro project's development?

• Expertise and Experience: Collaborating with established companies like Gamuda and Ferrovial Construction brings a wealth of experience in large-scale infrastructure projects. Their knowledge can help mitigate risks and enhance the project's viability.
• Streamlined Design Process: The early contractor involvement (ECI) model allows for collaborative design efforts, enabling the integration of construction insights from the onset. This can lead to more effective and efficient project planning, minimizing potential redesigns later in the process.
• Cost Management: Engaging with experienced partners can lead to more accurate cost assessments and budget management, helping to identify potential savings or cost overruns early. This collaboration will be crucial in navigating the financial landscape of such a large project.
• Accelerated Procurement: The partnership can facilitate quicker procurement of materials and equipment, as Gamuda and Ferrovial likely have established supply chains and relationships that can be leveraged to meet project timelines effectively.
• Enhanced Sustainability Practices: Both Gamuda and Ferrovial have commitments to sustainable development. Their involvement can ensure that environmentally friendly practices are woven throughout the project, aligning with New South Wales' renewable energy goals.
• Local Workforce Development: This international collaboration can also foster knowledge transfer and skills development among local workers. Training programs initiated by these firms can help enhance the capabilities of the New South Wales workforce.
• Regulatory Navigation: Experienced partners are often well-versed in regulatory requirements and can assist in ensuring compliance with environmental and safety standards, streamlining the approval processes necessary for project advancement.
• Community Engagement: The partnership may enhance community outreach efforts. Local engagement is critical for securing public support and can help address any potential concerns regarding the project's environmental and social impact.
• Risk Mitigation: With multiple companies involved, the project can benefit from shared risk, leading to more comprehensive risk management strategies. This can be particularly important for addressing challenges associated with the project's large scale and complexity.
• Boost to Renewable Energy Goals: Fast-tracking the Oven Mountain project through these partnerships directly supports New South Wales’ renewable energy targets by increasing energy storage capacity, thereby improving grid stability and reliability as coal-fired power sources diminish.
• Innovative Technologies: Collaborating with international firms can introduce innovative technologies and best practices in pumped hydro design, possibly improving efficiency and performance beyond conventional expectations.