Broken Hill, famously known as “The Silver City” for its rich mining history, lies in the west of New South Wales on the edge of the outback.
Its remote location, far from larger towns, poses significant energy challenges. Power is primarily supplied via long transmission lines from the main electricity grid, leaving the region vulnerable to frequent outages. Moreover, traditional backup systems such as diesel-powered generators are increasingly unreliable and outdated, underscoring the need for a modern energy solution.
An innovative energy solution
The Silver City Energy Storage Centre, developed by Hydrostor, is designed to address these challenges by delivering energy stability and resilience. Leveraging their patented Advanced Compressed Air Energy Storage (A-CAES) technology as part of mini-grid, the centre will store vast amounts of compressed air in a purpose-built hard-rock cavern 600m below the surface. This long duration energy storage solution will discharge 1,600 megawatt hours of electricity and deliver over eight hours of energy on a full charge. Leveraging the region’s established renewable energy infrastructure, including solar and wind farms, the project will form a ‘closed-circuit’ independent energy solution capable of powering the entire town without reliance on the National Electricity Market.
Cost advisory driving efficiency
We are supporting Hydrostor with the delivery of this transformative project through our cost management and advisory services. Our MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) Engineering team has worked closely with Hydrostor to develop a comprehensive and detailed cost estimate for the project’s civil works. This meticulous approach ensures transparency, efficiency, and alignment with financial goals, providing a solid foundation for successful project execution.
Aligning project goals
Along with cost management, we’ve provided programming and scheduling advisory services for the project. This has been crucial in the establishment and continuous development of their master programme in collaboration with the project team at Hydrostor. Over time, the programme has evolved into a comprehensive tool used to track progress across different workstreams, prioritise resources, promote accountability and ensure alignment with project goals and timelines.
Paving the way for long-term sustainability
In November 2024, Hydrostor and the NSW Government signed a Crown Lands agreement, securing a 65-year lease for the site and paving the way for construction. Development approval is expected in 2025, with construction anticipated to begin the same year. The facility will have a lifespan exceeding 50 years, delivering long-term energy security for Broken Hill. By combining innovative storage technology, renewable energy integration, and cost-efficient planning, the project will provide a reliable and sustainable solution to power one of Australia’s most remote regions.