Energy security
Affordable, reliable, safe, and appropriate: these are the hallmarks of a secure energy supply. As Australia moves toward net-zero emissions by 2050 and phases out coal-fired generation, there is an increasing urgency in the need to build long-duration storage for when the sun doesn’t shine and the wind doesn’t blow. The alternative is a volatile market and unreliable supply. Pumped hydro is an essential part of a secure energy and prosperous future.
Water security
Water scarcity and flood events have been major concerns for NSW over the past two decades. The proposed pumped hydro storage system, which will connect Cordeaux Reservoir with Port Kembla, will increase water storage capacity, provide flood mitigation options by ocean drainage, and further drought-proof the Greater Sydney water supply by hosting new seawater desalination. The project is a proposal that protects our precious water resources.
Green industry
Harnessing the potential of electrolysis for hydrogen, ammonia, or green steel production in a low-emissions future requires a dependable power source. Enter pumped hydro storage, offering stability and cost-effectiveness that can make hydrogen production an attractive choice. By locating energy production facilities at Port Kembla, we can achieve economies of scale and promote the decarbonisation efforts of heavy industries. Pumped hydro is the key to a greener industry and the catalyst for investments in clean fuel.
Community benefits
Think big. The PKPH proposal is an opportunity to rethink land use and management for the benefit of the community. From community access to preserving and promoting Indigenous cultural heritage and knowledge, the proposal considers how a major infrastructure project can be a community asset as much as an infrastructure asset. If we allow ourselves to think big.
