EnergyAustralia and EDF Australia have announced they will form a strategic partnership to co-develop and deliver the Lake Lyell Pumped Hydro Energy Storage project (LLPHES) in Lithgow, New South Wales.
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If developed, the LLPHES project would be capable of producing 385MW of reliable dispatchable energy—enough to supply over 250,000 homes for up to eight hours.
EnergyAustralia managing director Mark Collette said, “Our purpose is to lead and accelerate the clean energy transformation for all. The LLPHES project is a major initiative as part of this transition, providing storage that will firm renewables.
“We recognise pumped hydro requires unique expertise to ensure it is developed and delivered efficiently, while considering the best interests of the local community and the wider state of NSW. This partnership will enable both EnergyAustralia and EDF power solutions Australia to lend their expertise to the continued development of this important Project.”
EnergyAustralia and EDF have created a joint venture to enable the continued development of the project. Together, EnergyAustralia and EDF power solutions Australia own 100% of the project, with EDF power solutions Australia having acquired a 75% equity interest. EnergyAustralia will retain first rights to the power offtake for LLPHES.
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The LLPHES project is working towards its Environmental Impact Statement submission in 2025, with Final Investment Decision targeted for late 2026.
