Origin Energy to study feasibility of expanding 240 MW Shoalhaven hydropower project

Origin Energy has announced that its proposed expansion of the Shoalhaven pumped hydro scheme will progress to a AUD5 million (US$3.54 million) feasibility assessment, after receiving part-funding from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA).

Located approximately 150km south of Sydney in the Southern Highlands, the 240 MW Shoalhaven pumped hydro scheme has been operating since 1977, supplying clean and reliable electricity to thousands of homes and businesses.

Earlier this year Origin detailed several options to expand Shoalhaven, with the feasibility study to focus on a preferred option to nearly double the plant’s overall generating capacity via a single 235 MW generating unit housed in an underground power cavern. The study is expected to be completed in 2019.

ARENA is contributing AUD2 million (US$1.42 million) towards the detailed feasibility assessment that will include technical and environment studies as well as regulatory approvals.

Any future decision to go ahead on an expansion will depend on circumstances at the time, including a more certain regulatory and political environment and clarity on any competing generation capacity the government may fund.