In a significant  step towards renewables, Australia’s fossil fuel-rich region, Queensland, is building the world's largest pumped hydroelectric energy storage project.

The project, which is scheduled to be delivered in 2035, will be able to store five gigawatts of renewable energy – more than double Australia's largest pumped hydro scheme, Snowy 2.0.

"This is world-leading. We know that Queenslanders understand climate change. Today, government understands that we need to take action," Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk told the media.

Queensland has one of Australia’s most active fossil fuel operations, with mining contributing nearly AU$40 billion ($26 billion) to the state's economy in 2019-20 – the largest amount so far.

The pumped hydro scheme is part of Australia’s new AU$62 billion "energy and jobs plan," which will also see Queensland legislate a target to generate 80% of its energy from renewable sources by 2035.

Pumped hydro technology allows for the long-term storage of renewable energy – such as power generated by solar and wind – which is a key challenge for the transition to net zero carbon dioxide emissions by 2050. Also read: The Need for Expanding Clean Energy Technology Supply Chains

"We will use cheap solar electricity during the day to pump water up the mountain to store it.  Then at night, we can release the water to generate electricity. It's like a giant battery," Queensland's Deputy Premier Steven Miles said. 

Although mining has been important to Queensland’s economy, a majority of its citizens are taking climate change seriously and supporting green and climate-conscious leaders.

A recent YouGov survey in resource-rich northern Queensland found 75% of respondents under the age group of 35 wanted the government to invest in renewables over fossil fuel sources.

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