Alinta Energy has withdrawn plans to develop a $1.8 billion large-scale pumped hydro project in northern NSW.
The 900MW Oven Mountain Pumped Hydro Scheme was proposed for development within the Armidale Renewable Energy Zone.
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Pumped hydro projects are designed to act like a big battery, storing energy by pumping water uphill from one reservoir to another.
At 900MW for 8 hours, the Oven Mountain Pumped Hydro Scheme would generate up to 7,200MWh (7.2GWh), which could power more than 600,000 homes.
Alinta Energy said in a statement on the project website, “Following extensive assessment and development work, we have made the difficult decision to discontinue work on the Oven Mountain Pumped Hydro project.
“Economic and timing challenges on key elements of the project, including a critical transmission line, made it unviable to proceed.
“This decision follows years of technical studies, planning, stakeholder engagement and project development activities. All available options were carefully considered before determining the project was no longer viable to progress.
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“We sincerely thank the community, Traditional Custodians, landholders, MPs and council representatives, suppliers, key agencies, and many other key stakeholders who have contributed their time, knowledge and feedback throughout the development process.”
