In a bid to address the solar duck curve phenomenon, Zen Energy, led by Ross Garnaut, has revealed plans for a massive 1GW pumped hydro project. This initiative aims to supply up to eight hours of stable renewable energy to New South Wales' grid, aiding its transition away from traditional fossil fuels.

Dubbed the Western Sydney Pumped Hydro Project, the venture proposes repurposing land once utilized by the coal industry in New South Wales. With the support of WaterNSW, Zen intends to construct underground tunnels to pump water from Lake Burragorang to a reservoir formed from an old coal washing pit, previously operational until 2001.

Partnering with the Dunbier family, former owners of the Burragorang Valley Coal mining company, Zen aims to contribute to the clean energy future of New South Wales. This marks a significant departure for Zen, moving from its primary business of contracting renewables from other developers to embarking on its first brownfield renewable energy project.

According to Zen CEO Anthony Garnaut, the project signifies the company's entry into renewable energy development in New South Wales and aligns with its vision for a sustainable future. He emphasized the importance of large-scale energy storage projects like Western Sydney Pumped Hydro in maintaining grid stability and managing energy prices amidst the retirement of aging coal plants.

The project's mechanics involve using surplus renewable energy, primarily sourced from solar rooftops, to pump water from Lake Burragorang to the reservoir located at Nattai. When demand peaks, stored water is released to drive turbines, injecting renewable power into the grid.

With initial studies indicating no adverse effects on water quality or levels, Zen sees a clear planning pathway for the project, minimizing landscape impact. The rehabilitation of the old coal washery site and ensuring water quality in Lake Burragorang are key responsibilities for Zen.

Moving forward, Zen plans to engage in consultations with stakeholders, including Traditional Owners and local residents, while pursuing necessary approvals. If all goes as planned, construction could commence by 2027, with operation expected by 2030 or 2031.

This development comes amid ongoing delays with Snowy 2.0, with Zen's project offering a potentially faster and more cost-effective solution. With a focus on leveraging known geology and shorter tunnel lengths, Zen aims to deliver the Western Sydney Pumped Hydro project at a fraction of the cost of Snowy 2.0.

By harnessing gravity and existing reservoirs, Zen's project presents a simplified approach to pumped hydro, offering significant potential for grid stability and renewable energy integration. As such initiatives gain momentum, they play a crucial role in Australia's transition to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.