Wedoany.com Report-Jun 25, EnergyAustralia and EDF Power Solutions Australia have formed a joint venture to co-develop and deliver the Lake Lyell Pumped Hydro Energy Storage (LLPHES) project in Lithgow, New South Wales. The collaboration follows a detailed selection process in which EDF Power Solutions was chosen for its international expertise in developing and operating pumped hydro energy storage systems.

If completed, the LLPHES project would have the capacity to generate 385MW of dispatchable energy, supplying more than 250,000 homes for up to eight hours. The initiative is part of broader efforts to support the energy transition by providing large-scale energy storage to complement renewable sources.

Mark Collette, Managing Director of EnergyAustralia, said: “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.”

He added that the joint venture would combine the strengths of both organisations to advance the development of the 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.”

James Katsikas, CEO of EDF Power Solutions Australia, highlighted the company’s international experience in hydroelectric development: “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.”

Katsikas also mentioned the company’s ongoing work on the Dungowan Pumped Hydro Energy Storage project near Tamworth, which offers 300MW of capacity with ten hours of storage. He noted: “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.”

The joint venture agreement grants EDF Power Solutions Australia a 75 per cent equity interest in LLPHES, while EnergyAustralia retains 25 per cent. EnergyAustralia also holds first rights to power offtake from the project and will continue to lead community and stakeholder engagement.

The LLPHES project is progressing toward the submission of its Environmental Impact Statement, planned for 2025. A final investment decision is expected by the end of 2026. The project is positioned to contribute significantly to New South Wales' clean energy goals and long-term grid stability.