The approval, issued under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (EPBC Act), permits geotechnical investigations to verify site suitability. Information gathered during these activities will guide detailed design refinements and updates to the project's business case.
Pending state-level authorizations, Queensland Hydro anticipates starting the subsequent phase of the Borumba project in 2026.
The company is actively updating the commercial evaluation and overall business case. Early exploratory efforts aim to mitigate potential risks by delivering essential technical insights ahead of any commitment to major construction.
Queensland Hydro Executive Chair Mark Irwin emphasized the importance of long-duration pumped hydro for the region's energy infrastructure.
"The Borumba Pumped Hydro Project is a critical component of Queensland's future energy mix, and the Commonwealth regulatory approval is a significant step forward in its development," Irwin said. "The proposed exploratory works will support the revised business case for the Borumba Project, with data collected able to support any future configuration.
"Delivering major infrastructure projects requires meticulous planning to avoid unforeseen risks. One of the most effective strategies for achieving this is undertaking comprehensive exploratory works before finalising designs and commencing future main works construction activities.
"If the Borumba Project proceeds to main works construction, this phase will require further Commonwealth and State approvals.
"In addition, and aligned to our commitments to local benefits, Queensland Hydro will be closely engaging with local suppliers and the community on the exploratory works program."
The Commonwealth decision followed a public consultation process held in early 2025. Feedback submitted during this period, together with Queensland Hydro's responses, informed the evaluation by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.
The approval incorporates specific conditions tailored to the exploratory scope. These encompass restrictions on environmental disturbance, requirements for environmental management plans, site restoration aligned with the Offset Area Management Plan, and ongoing compliance obligations. Certain conditions must be satisfied before work begins, while others remain in effect throughout the phase.
Queensland Hydro is obligated to submit regular compliance reports, which will be made available on the company's website.
This approval enables progress toward a potential large-scale pumped hydro facility designed to enhance energy storage and support renewable integration in Queensland.
