Genex Power Limited presented an update on construction activities for the 250MW/2,000MWh Kidston Pumped Storage Hydro Project, which is on schedule for completion in the second half of CY2024.
Underground Works
Genex announces that the powerhouse cavern roof has been entirely excavated. The work now focusses on rock bolting and shotcreting the wall structures before the first bench excavation begins. Construction adit and Main Access Tunnel excavation continues in type 1 ground conditions. The ventilation shaft is finished, and the raisebore machine is working on the electrical cable shaft, the second of four vertical shafts.
Transmission Line and Substations
Genex reported that the Powerlink 275kV transmission line from Kidston to Guybal Munjan (Mt Fox) and accompanying connecting structures are progressing well. Key activities at the Kidston Pumped Storage Hydro Project since the Company’s announcement on 29 March 2023:
- The transmission line lattice towers’ concrete foundations and steel erection have begun;
- The installation of civil foundations and underground conduits for the start of civil earthworks is progressing well at the Guybal Munjan substation;
- The pad subgrade construction for the Aurumfield substation at Kidston (K2X) has proceeded and is nearly finished;
- The long-lead time shunt reactors for Guybul Munjan and Aurumfield are now in Australia, and the major procurement is finished;
- Development of the K2H switchyard, including the installation of the control room and ongoing construction on the principal steelwork, equipment, and cable installation; and
- Completion of the huge concrete foundations, the largest of which was a 220m3 single concrete pour, for the four transmission line monopoles between K2H and Aurumfield.
Other Works
According to Genex, works on Wises Dam continue to progress well, and the first section of high-density polyethylene liner has been installed.
Genex reported that the Intake Canal’s ultimate level of excavation has been reached.
Additionally, the next shipment of electromechanical equipment is expected to reach Australia in H2 CY2023, and delivery is still on schedule.
