Scoring a Record Generation High: Australia's Esteemed Pumped Hydro Facility

Queensland's Cleanco, a leader in renewable energy, has marked a new milestone in Australia's clean energy journey. In an outstanding achievement, Cleanco's Wivenhoe Power Station generated a record-breaking level of power from July 1, 2024, far exceeding its previous outputs.

Record Power Generation at Wivenhoe

Located 75 km from Brisbane, Wivenhoe Power Station’s recent quarter surpassed all previous records in its four-decade history since 1984. The pumped hydro facility’s two units produced an astounding 199 GWh of electricity, setting a new standard for Australia’s renewable energy sector by generating 5.2 times the station's usual output.

The Technology Behind Wivenhoe’s Success

The heart of Wivenhoe’s capability lies in its two 285 MW Francis turbines. This advanced pumped hydro technology acts as a powerful, rechargeable battery, with the turbines pushing water up a slope using excess grid power. This system provides up to 10 hours of sustained electricity output, enabling Wivenhoe to generate electricity on demand, similar to a large-scale battery.

Supporting Queensland’s Energy Grid and Lowering Costs

By storing and redistributing surplus solar energy, Wivenhoe supports Queensland’s electricity grid, particularly during peak demand periods. This facility not only stabilizes the power supply but also helps reduce electricity costs, benefiting both consumers and businesses across Queensland. Wivenhoe exemplifies how pumped hydro storage can help Queensland transition to sustainable energy.

Cleanco’s Vision for a Greener Queensland

Cleanco CEO, Tom Metcalfe, lauded Wivenhoe’s recent achievement, emphasizing the importance of pumped hydro in advancing renewable energy. He highlighted that Cleanco aims to support 1,000 MW of new renewable power by 2025 through constructing, owning, and operating clean energy projects. Wivenhoe Power Station stands as a successful model, proving the effectiveness of such sustainable energy solutions.

The Swanbank Clean Energy Hub: A New Step Forward

Cleanco’s Swanbank Clean Energy Hub, located just 40 km from Brisbane, represents another major step in Queensland’s renewable future. The facility houses a 250 MW/500 MWh battery in collaboration with Tesla and Yurika, along with a 275 kV substation, exemplifying a commitment to clean, reliable energy.

Conclusion

Cleanco’s achievements at Wivenhoe Power Station and the Swanbank Hub are pioneering steps in Australia’s journey towards a renewable future. These projects showcase the immense potential of pumped hydro and battery storage, providing Queensland with a sustainable path forward in the global energy transition.