Three south-east Queensland companies have been appointed by Queensland Hydro to undertake essential surface-level geotechnical drilling for the 2,000MW Borumba Pumped Hydro Project.
GeoDrill Australia from Chevallum, Tier 1 Drilling from Morayfield and SJ Drilling from Jimboomba were successful in their tenders to provide a combined $25 million worth of drilling. The drilling is subject to Queensland Hydro receiving necessary regulatory approvals for the works.
Queensland Hydro Chief Executive Officer Kieran Cusack said it is pleasing local companies can benefit from their involvement in pumped hydro while Queensland Hydro will benefit from their local expertise.
“Pumped hydro is unquestionably the right technology to enable Queensland’s clean energy transition. Our proposed projects offer real opportunities for local businesses to use their experience and capability to assist us in building these generational assets,” Mr Cusack said.
“This is a two-year program of work, which provides local companies with certainty and surety and keeps economic benefits flowing into the region.
“While some companies may never have worked on pumped hydro or a renewable energy project before, their skills and expertise are transferrable, and they can positively contribute to the ongoing development of these projects.”
Thomas Partleton, Managing Director from GeoDrill Australia & GD Water Solutions, said they are thrilled to be part of the Borumba Pumped Hydro Project as it represents a significant opportunity to further develop their capabilities in renewable energy.
“This project will not only grow our team by 30 new members but also contribute to the local economy and the clean energy transition. Our expertise in geotechnical drilling aligns perfectly with the needs of this project, and we’re eager to support Queensland’s shift towards a sustainable energy future.”
Tyson Meyers, Managing Director from Tier 1 Drilling Australia said: “Tier 1 Drilling Australia is excited to be a part of the Borumba Pumped Hydro Project working toward building a cleaner future. Our experience and expertise in the drilling industry will mutually benefit the project success as well as benefit our company supporting the local community.”
Julian Irons, Director from SJ Drilling said: “Having completed several previous drilling campaigns for the Borumba Project, we are pleased to be selected to continue our involvement in this exciting and challenging project.
“Long term work gives stability for our company, and we believe the project will provide both local benefit and long-term power supply security. The support and hospitality of local residents has been great, and we look forward to ongoing work in the area.”