Ashurst advises Water NSW on Renewable Energy Storage Program - Stage 3

Global law firm Ashurst has advised Water NSW on its Renewable Energy Storage Program - Stage 3 for the development of two pumped hydro energy storage projects.

The development agreement provides Upper Hunter Hydro Pty Ltd (UHH), the proposed developer of the renewable project, with access to areas of Water NSW land and reservoirs at the Glenbawn and Glennies Creek dams for investigative and feasability activities to support the development of two pumped hydro energy storage (PHES) systems, with an opportunity for integrated wind energy, located at each dam.

Through a competitive tender process, Water NSW evaluated private sector expressions of interest and proposals for the development of energy and storage projects on 38 state-owned dams to align with the State's objectives under the NSW Electricity Strategy. 

Water NSW's Renewable Energy Storage Program fulfils an action of the NSW Pumped Hydro Roadmap by bringing forward private sector investment in pumped hydro schemes.

Water NSW and UHH will enter into a project deed for the design, construction, operation and decommissioning of the PHES systems when specified preconditions under the development agreement are met. The PHES systems are expected to store more than 1,000MW for a period of 8-12 hours.

Ashurst partner Gareth Sage said: "Ashurst is thrilled to be working with Water NSW on the Renewable Energy Storage Program. This is the third development agreement signed by Water NSW where we have been its legal advisers. The projects are an important part of the energy transition in NSW and we are pleased to be playing our part." 

The Ashurst team is led by partner Gareth Sage and includes senior associate Achal Gupta and associates Dan Trevanion and Nathan Nguyen.