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Massive Central Queensland Hydro Project Steps into the Spotlight

A landmark renewable energy storage project proposed for Central Queensland will be in the spotlight at the upcoming Connecting Industry Luncheon on August 20, as project CEO John Carr presents an update on the Capricornia Pumped Hydro Project.

The proposed 750MW, 12GWh pumped hydro facility, known officially as the Capricornia Energy Hub, will be located approximately 80 km west of Mackay in the state’s hinterland. The project will use a valley-fill upper reservoir and a lower in-stream reservoir along the Broken River, downstream from Eungella Dam, to provide long-duration energy storage and grid stability as Queensland accelerates its renewable energy transition.

The project is currently progressing through approvals and early design, supported by an Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) agreement with joint venture partners Gamuda and Ferrovial. Construction is expected to begin in 2026, with operations targeted by 2031, delivering up to 600 jobs at peak construction and 65 ongoing roles during operation.

The August 20 event, to be held at the Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre, will give attendees exclusive insight into the project’s timeline, transmission connection strategy, and future procurement opportunities particularly relevant for Queensland’s resource, construction, and manufacturing supply chains.

Connecting Industry Director Kieran Moran said the project exemplifies the kind of energy infrastructure that will define Queensland’s next chapter. “The Capricornia Pumped Hydro Project represents not just an engineering milestone, but a regional opportunity to leverage clean energy for long-term economic development,” Mr Moran said.

“Connecting Industry Luncheons exist to bridge the gap between major projects and the supply chain who can help deliver them. We’re proud to provide that platform.”

Also presenting at the luncheon is Katie-Anne Mulder, CEO of the Queensland Renewable Energy Council (QREC), who will speak on how the state’s energy transformation is creating opportunities across the supply chain from procurement to circular economy initiatives.

For more information and tickets to the Connecting Industry luncheon on August 20, connect here now.

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