A vital role in the renewable energy transition.

Pumped hydro is a proven and reliable form of energy storage, allowing energy to be stored for longer than most current battery technologies.

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Landscape and Visual Amenity
Community feedback has helped shape how the Lake Lyell Pumped Hydro Project fits into its surroundings. Learn how design changes are reducing visual impact and preserving the area’s scenic character.

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Air, noise and dust

Independent studies are helping ensure the project meets high environmental standards. Explore how air quality, noise, and emissions are being modelled, monitored, and minimised.
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Construction Methodology

From underground tunnels to careful site planning, see how international best practice is guiding construction to minimise disruption, protect the landscape, and respect the community.
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Traffic and Roads

Safe, well-planned roads are essential during construction and beyond. Find out how the project is working with councils and transport agencies to manage traffic and leave lasting local benefits.
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Recreation and water access

Continuing to enjoy the recreational use of Lake Lyell is important to the community. Constructed in 1982 to provide cooling water for nearby power stations, Lake Lyell has since become a much-loved spot for boating, fishing, and camping.
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Talk to us about economic impacts

We're out in the Lithgow community again this week — and it’s a great time to drop in, ask questions, and learn more about the Lake Lyell Pumped Hydro Project.
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Project timings
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Feasibility
February 2023 to early 2024
Plan and Development
Planning and development
July 2023 to mid-2026
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Project exhibition and government approvals
Late-2025 to mid-2026
Checkmark Certificate
Final decision (pending approvals)
July to December 2026
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Construction
2027 to 2031
Operations commence
Operations commence
2031

About the project

Energy storage plays a vital role in the renewable energy transition and a new, modern energy system by providing flexible, reliable and quality power, when we need it most.
 
Pumped hydro is a proven and reliable form of energy storage, allowing energy to be stored for longer than most current battery technologies.

It works by using two reservoirs of water – one up high and one down low to store energy and generate electricity. When solar and wind power is plentiful, this energy is used to pump water from the lower reservoir to the upper reservoir.

When energy is needed, the water from the upper reservoir is released back into the lower reservoir turning turbines which generate electricity. This electricity is sent to the grid for use in homes and business.

We are progressing the development of a pumped hydro energy storage project on land and waterways we own near Lithgow.

The NSW Government has declared the project as Critical State Significant Infrastructure (CSSI), highlighting its importance as essential, high -priority infrastructure for the state.

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EnergyAustralia and EDF power solutions Australia recognise that we operate and plan for the energy transition on the traditional Country of the Wiradjuri peoples and we respect and acknowledge their continued connection to Country and culture.