EnergyAustralia and EDF power solutions Australia have entered into a new joint venture for the co-development and delivery of the Lake Lyell Pumped Hydro Energy Storage project (LLPHES) in Lithgow.
The joint venture announcement follows a rigorous process, with EDF power solutions chosen for its global experience and capability in the development and operation of pumped hydro energy storage assets.
If developed, the LLPHES project would be capable of producing 385MW of reliable dispatchable energy – enough to supply more than 250,000 homes in New South Wales for up to eight hours.
EnergyAustralia Managing Director, Mark Collette, said EnergyAustralia’s 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 New South Wales.”
Mr Collette said the partnership will enable both EnergyAustralia and EDF Australia to lend their expertise to the continued development of the important project.
“EnergyAustralia holds long term relationships with the Lithgow community, and we have built strong relationships with the community. We look forward to continuing to work with the community and local stakeholders.”
EDF power solutions Australia CEO, James Katsikas, said the organisation brings deep international and local experience that uniquely positions it to help deliver the LLPHES project safely, efficiently and to a world-class standard.
“EDF Group is one of the world’s largest, diversified low-carbon energy producers. We own and operate more than 20GW of hydroelectric assets across the globe and are developing many more.”
Mr Katsikas said in Australia, the company is already leading the Dungowan PHES project near Tamworth, with 300MW and ten hours of storage that to support the state’s energy transition.
“We will work with EnergyAustralia and all interested stakeholders to ensure that LLPHES becomes a model of sustainable development and a source of real pride for the region.”
EnergyAustralia and EDF power solutions Australia created the joint venture to enable the continued development of the project.
Together, EnergyAustralia and EDF power solutions Australia own 100 per cent of the LLPHES project, with EDF Australia having acquired a 75 per cent equity interest. EnergyAustralia will retain first rights to the power offtake for LLPHES.
EnergyAustralia will continue to have responsibility for community, neighbour and stakeholder engagement and the Lithgow community as part of the project.
The LLPHES project is working towards its environmental impact statement submission in 2025, with final investment decision targeted for late 2026.
