To whom it may concern,
I am writing as a long term resident of Lithgow to formally object to the proposed Lake Lyell pumped hydro scheme.
Lithgow and its surrounding environment are not abstract locations on a planning map they are living breathing ecosystems that sustain both wildlife and our community. One of the most concerning aspects of this proposal is the potential impact on the already vulnerable platypus population. These animals rely on stable clean waterways and undisturbed habitats. Large scale infrastructure works fluctuating water levels and increased human interference pose a direct threat to their survival in this area. Once that damage is done it is not easily reversed.
Beyond the environmental concerns there is a broader question of whether this project represents a responsible use of public resources. Pumped hydro is often promoted as a clean energy solution but in reality it is an inefficient system that consumes significant energy to operate and requires massive upfront investment. The cost to benefit ratio becomes even more questionable when weighed against the environmental degradation it risks causing in regions like ours. There are alternative energy storage and generation solutions that are less invasive more modern and far better suited to Australia’s landscape.
For a community like Lithgow already navigating economic transition and environmental pressures this proposal feels less like progress and more like an unnecessary burden. It risks damaging local ecosystems diminishing the natural value of Lake Lyell and delivering uncertain long term benefits at a very high cost.
It is also deeply concerning that projects of this scale continue to move forward despite strong local opposition. Residents who live here who understand the land and waterways should not be sidelined in decisions that will permanently alter them.
I strongly urge decision makers to reconsider this proposal in its current form. Protecting the unique environment of Lithgow including its platypus population should be a priority not an afterthought. Once these natural assets are compromised they cannot simply be restored with funding or future promises.
This project as it stands represents an unacceptable risk to our environment and an inefficient use of time and public money.

Arguments against The Lake Lyell Pumped Hydro Project [JM]


This project is 2.5 hours from Sydney in pristine Australian Bushland.
It is imperative that it not be spoiled
With the rate that Sydney is expanding with immigration levels like never before, it is imperative we conserve the regional areas . Once destroyed there is no coming back , especially an area as pristine as Mt Walker and its surrounds.

This beautiful landscape, still within easy reach of Sydney should not be destroyed by anyone, let alone a foreign owned consortium.
When there are so many other viable, cheaper and kinder to the environment options , it beggars belief that this project should even be considered.
I overlook Mt Walker and watch the sun rising over the beautiful landscape every morning . To have that desecrated is extraordinarily short sighted.
There are so many reasons why this project should not even be considered.
I know that many people disagreeing with this project have set out their opinions, but I list below a few of the other many reasons why the project should be refused.
They are:

1. DESTRUCTION OF A REGIONAL LANDMARK
The proposed upper reservoir will be built on Mt Walker, the highest and most prominent peak in the region, long recognised for its pristine natural beauty and ecological importance. The proposed reservoir wall is higher than the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

2. NOT A REMOTE PROJECT – DIRECT IMPACT ON RESIDENTS
It is critically important to understand that this project is not remote. It is literally on the doorstep of a major population centre along with many residents directly impacted. Within 2 km of residential land and within 6km of Lithgow Shopping Plaza. The impact on local residents who may well be your friends of family will be immense.

3. LAKE LYELL - FUNDAMENTALLY UNSUITABLE
Lake Lyell limited size and volume make it an illogical and inappropriate choice for a pumped hydro project of this nature. It is too small to support the demands of pumped hydro without causing serious and lasting ecological damage. To fill the reservoir will remove around 15% of the water from Lake Lyell. And the question still arises – what if there is a drought?
4. IRREVERSIBLE LOSS OF INDIGENOUS HERITAGE
One of the most distressing aspects of this proposal is the imminent destruction of an area of immense Indigenous cultural significance. Both the upper and lower sections of the proposed Lake Lyell Pumped Hydro project are tied to deeply sacred Aboriginal traditions and sites.

5. FAILURE TO MEET NSW GOVERNMENT’S OWN MINIMUM GUIDELINES
One of the more glaring concerns with the Lake Lyell proposal is that it does not meet the NSW Government’s own technical standards for pumped hydro development. The NSW Pumped Hydro Roadmap (2018) clearly states that pumped hydro projects should have a minimum operating head of 300 metres to ensure efficiency, yet the Lake Lyell Project does not meet this criteria.

6. RIGHT PROJECT, WRONG PLACE
As highlighted by one of Australia’s foremost authorities on pumped hydro, Professor Andrew Blakers of the Australian National University, there are thousands of technically suitable sites across the country. The NSW Government should be actively steering investment toward technically sound, environmentally responsible, and socially acceptable sites

7. BATTERY STORAGE – SCALABLE, PREDICTABLE, LOW-IMPACT
The Great Western Battery for Wallerawang at 3500 MWh is already bigger than Lake Lyell Pumped Hydro at 3080 MWh. Battery storage involves minimal social, cultural and environmental impacts. Battery storage technology will continue to improve rendering Lake Lyell Pumped Hydro an outdated technology from the beginning.

8. ENORMOUS PLATYPUS AND ECOLOGICAL DESTRUCTION
With plans to completely destroy 100 hectares (1 sq. km) of pristine bush and 10 hectares of prime fish and platypus habitat. To destroy such a biologically rich and historically significant site for a project with uncertain returns and high risk is environmentally reckless. How many platypus, koalas, powerful owls or any other flora and fauna habitats will be lost?

9. LOSS OF RECREATION, TOURISM, AND INCREASED SAFETY ISSUES
Lake Lyell is not just a water storage facility—it is one of the most important recreational assets in the Central Tablelands. It attracts up to 2,000 visitors a day during peak summer periods, with over 85% of those visitors being families who come for boating, fishing, swimming, camping, and water sports. It is a blow to community wellbeing, regional identity, and local economic resilience and a major potential loss of tourism.

10. LOSS OF EXISTING BUSINESSES AND JOBS
One of the most misleading claims made in support of the Lake Lyell Pumped Hydro project is that it will deliver economic benefits to the Lithgow region. The reality is quite the opposite. Energy Australia has stated that the project will create less than20 direct long-term jobs once operational. Meanwhile, it threatens to displace or severely undermine multiple existing local businesses—businesses that have operated for decades and employ local people year-round.

11. AN UNWANTED LEGACY FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS
Once the pumps are decommissioned—whether due to technological obsolescence, excessive maintenance costs, or the rise of better alternatives—the reservoir becomes a stranded, non-functional structure. With its steep terrain and artificial construction, restoring the area to anything resembling its natural form would be impossible. Future generations will ask – “what were they thinking?”.

12. PROJECT HIGH RISK, LOW CERTAINTY
It represents a high-risk undertaking for all stakeholders, including significant government investment in a historically uncertain project model.

13. LOSS OF A PREMIER FISHING DESTINATION
This level of disturbance is fundamentally incompatible with what Lake Lyell has come to represent: a premium, accessible fishing destination. Unlike purpose-built pumped hydro reservoirs or larger dams designed for high-volume cycling, Lake Lyell is simply too small to sustain this type of operation without widespread ecological collapse.

14. WORKERS CAMP – UNDERMINING TOURISM AND COMMUNITY
These workers camp options demonstrate a company that is intent on doing what is most convenient for themselves – not what is best for communities, businesses or tourism.

15. ENERGYAUSTRALIA’S INEXPERIENCE
Both Energy Australia and EDF are recognised operators of power stations, battery storage systems and transmission infrastructure. However, they do not have a demonstrated history of constructing a pumped hydro project in Australia—particularly not on terrain as steep, geologically complex and environmentally sensitive as Mt Walker. They will be learning on the job!

Dated 21 April 2026
Joanne Maxwell
Resident of Rydal for 26 years with a clear view of Mt Walker

I object to the Lake Lyell Pumped Hydro proposal on the following grounds -
Loss of amenity and actual and potential tourist attractions;
The destruction of a natural landscape feature and the construction of an eyesore in its place;
The existential threat to the local platypus population;
The destruction of native forest and wildlife habitat;
The threat to long-established businesses which will be down-graded and possibly relocated;
The thought that a camp of 400 non-local workers over a long period would be of benefit to Lithgow - certinaly of dubious social benefit;
The lack of consideration shown to First Nation history and interests;
The cynical promotion of the project as "sustainable" when it is intended to be powered by burning fossil fuels;
The imposition of a large, unsightly structure on natural woodland when there are less instrusive alternatives for energy storage, e.g. batteries located on already degraded land;
The probable use of the project to justify the extended operation of Mt Piper power station past its currently projected closure date.
The fact that this site is NOT one that was considered as suitable for a pumped hydro plant by Professor Andrew Blakers from the ANU. Many more suitable sites have been identified.
I understand that Lake Lyell and the surrounding land is owned by Energy Australia (a fully owned foreign company) which means that there is no need for consultation and negotiation with, or appeasement of, other landholders. That makes this site very convenient. Mere convenience, however, should not be a criterion in the planning and location of such large infrastructure projects. There's much more at stake.
Thank you for the opportunity to make this submission.
Susan Gregory

I write in strong support of the Lake Lyell Pumped Hydro Energy Storage Project in Lithgow, not just for what it represents in terms of energy infrastructure, but for what it makes possible for the community. My perspective comes from direct involvement in regional economic transition planning, including work undertaken with Lithgow City Council to better understand how communities like ours can navigate the shift away from coal and into a more diverse and resilient economic future.
What became clear through that work is that transition is not something that can be managed in theory. It requires real investment, real projects, and real opportunities on the ground. Without that, transition becomes a slow erosion of jobs, confidence and population. With it, there is a pathway to renewal. Projects like Lake Lyell are exactly the type of investment that was identified as necessary to ensure Lithgow does not simply endure change, but benefits from it.
Lithgow has always been a town that contributes. For generations, it has powered New South Wales, supported by a skilled workforce and a strong industrial base. That identity does not disappear with the decline of coal. It evolves. The opportunity now is to carry that legacy forward into a new era, one where the region continues to play a meaningful role in the state’s economy, but in a way that reflects where the world is heading.
The real value of this project lies in its ability to anchor that future locally. Large-scale investment brings with it more than just construction activity. It brings people, skills, and confidence. It creates work not only during the build, but across the broader local economy, supporting trades, suppliers, hospitality, accommodation and small business. It keeps people in the region who might otherwise be forced to leave, and it attracts new people who see opportunity where others once saw decline.
This matters in a community like Lithgow. Population retention and growth underpin everything from school enrolments to local services, from sporting clubs to community organisations. When people have reasons to stay, invest, and build their lives locally, the entire social fabric strengthens. When they don’t, the impacts are felt everywhere. Projects like this shift that trajectory in a positive direction.
There is also an important psychological impact that comes with investment of this scale. Confidence is not an abstract concept in regional communities. It is tangible. It shows up in whether businesses expand, whether families choose to settle, and whether young people believe they have a future in their hometown. When a major project is committed to a region, it sends a clear signal that the future is worth investing in. That signal flows through the entire community.
Over time, this type of investment also helps diversify the local economy. It reduces reliance on a single industry and creates the conditions for new sectors to emerge. As infrastructure is built and capability develops, other opportunities follow. This is how regional economies evolve—through a sequence of investments that build on each other, rather than a single defining project. Lake Lyell has the potential to be one of those foundational investments.
Importantly, the benefits of projects like this extend well beyond the construction phase. Long-term operations, ongoing maintenance, and associated economic activity provide a sustained presence in the region. Community benefit initiatives further reinforce this, ensuring that the value generated by the project is shared locally over time. This creates not just economic uplift, but a sense of partnership between the project and the community.
It is also worth recognising that transition, if not supported by projects like this, can have significant social consequences. Job losses without replacement opportunities lead to outmigration, reduced services, and a gradual weakening of community life. This is not unique to Lithgow; it has been seen in regions around the world that have faced industrial change without adequate investment. The lesson is clear. Transition must be backed by action.
The Lake Lyell project represents that action. It provides a practical way to retain the strengths of the region—its people, its skills, its identity—while creating new pathways for growth. It allows Lithgow to remain a place where people can find meaningful work, raise families, and contribute to their community.
For those of us who have been involved in thinking about the future of Lithgow for many years, this is exactly the type of opportunity that was envisaged. Not a silver bullet, but a critical piece of a broader transition. A project that brings immediate benefits, while also helping to shape a longer-term vision for the region.
Lithgow has always been part of the story of how New South Wales powers itself. This project ensures that story continues, while also delivering tangible economic and social benefits to the community that hosts it. It supports jobs, strengthens local businesses, builds confidence, and helps secure a future that people can see themselves in.
For these reasons, I strongly support the approval of the Lake Lyell Pumped Hydro Energy Storage Project and the role it will play in supporting a positive and lasting transition for Lithgow and the wider Central West.

I support the project in using this already degraded and artificial landscape for the purposes of generating sustainable energy, creating jobs, meeting our nation's strategic and national security needs, while also hopefully being able to be used as a tourism drawcard and recreation area. Too many people are scared of change for changes sake and aren't willing to make sacrifices for the greater good. Government needs to be strong in pushing projects ahead as long as they meet environmental considerations (i.e. do not destroy habitat that cannot be reasonably remediatied or disrupt endangered species), at the same time strongly expressing the positive benefits.

SUBMISSION REGARDING LAKE LYELL PUMPED HYDRO
I recently relocated to the Lithgow region from Sydney with my family, seeking a fresh start and opportunities to contribute positively to the community. After extensive research, we chose Lithgow over many other potential locations due to its affordability, proximity, and natural environment. Lithgow's reputation as a struggling country town did not deter us; in fact, I saw significant potential, as I had in previous places I invested in, such as Manly, Marrickville, and Rose Bay—areas that have since transformed into vibrant, sought-after locations.
Our decision to move was a significant investment, both financially and personally. We purchased the historic Bracey Mansion, which we’ve transformed into a successful Airbnb, drawing visitors to Lithgow. Additionally, my partner established a cleaning business, I opened a photography studio, and I launched the Lithgow Comedy Festival, now in its third year. These endeavors have not only brought economic benefits to the region but also boosted Lithgow’s cultural profile.
My passion for Lithgow’s potential was shared by the community, which led to my election to the local council—a remarkable achievement for someone new to the town. This reflects the community's shared vision for a vibrant and sustainable future for Lithgow.
Having lived and worked across diverse countries—including Japan, the Czech Republic, and Cuba—I have a broad perspective on what makes a location appealing for residents and tourists alike. Lithgow has vast potential, and its natural environment is its greatest asset. As stewards of this region, we have a responsibility to protect it for future generations.
While I support the transition to clean energy and recognize the role of hydroelectric power, the proposed Lake Lyell Pumped Hydro project fails to meet the standards necessary for a project of this scale and impact. There are critical issues that must be addressed:
1. Inappropriate Location: There are reportedly over 1,500 more suitable locations for pumped hydro projects in NSW alone. These sites are identified based on factors such as performance and environmental suitability.
2. Advancing Technology: Battery storage technologies are rapidly advancing and are forecasted to match or surpass the output of pumped hydro with significantly less environmental impact, as acknowledged in Energy Australia's own materials. These systems are also more cost-effective and predictable to implement.
3. Irreversible Environmental Impact: The proposed project will permanently alter the landscape, particularly around Mt Walker, irreparably damaging a pristine environment. Future generations will inherit a degraded landscape and non-functional infrastructure, undermining our duty to preserve this area.
4. Economic Impact: Many visitors to Lithgow, including guests at our Airbnb, come to enjoy the natural beauty and attractions near Lake Lyell. Weddings, events, and tourism drive significant economic activity in the region, which will be jeopardized by the disruption and loss of appeal caused by this project.
5. Uncertain Future Outcomes: The long-term impact on Lake Lyell itself, particularly under conditions such as drought, remains uncertain. To proceed without a thorough understanding of these risks would be irresponsible.
Finally, it is crucial to highlight the overwhelming opposition from the local community. My election to council was driven, in part, by my clear stance against this project. Moreover, the council voted decisively—eight to one—to oppose it, reflecting the broader community sentiment.
Lithgow has the potential to become a beacon for sustainable development and environmental stewardship. The Lake Lyell Pumped Hydro project threatens to undermine this vision and the progress we have made as a community. I urge decision-makers to reconsider this project and prioritize locations and technologies that align with both environmental sustainability and community well-being.
Cr Tom Evangelidis

The pumped hydro is going to ruin the recreational aspect of the dam which my self and my family enjoy. The destruction of the road of sir Thomas Mitchell drive and surrounding houses to be affected by the increase of traffic, along with the increase in noise disturbances due to the increase road users, trucks and other machinery required. The visibility of the hydro stationed on the top of mt walker ruining the surrounding views and natural habitats of native animals. The decrease in value to the houses along the road due to giant object on the hill. Lack of community job opportunities.
The amount of power storage that the hydro will hold is minimal considering the amount of destruction that will be cause to create it and keep it pumping.

I object to this project. Whilst the idea of a Pumped Hydro sounds good, the company who has financial obligations to this project is I believe NOT Australian owned. The advised job creations are simply not substantiated in my opinion. The risk to the recreational area is again in my opinion HIGH and therefore not in the best interests of the area. Furthermore, and again in my opinion, the Lake Lyall area, Land and equipment of the old Wallerawang Power station and the Mt Pipper station area and equipment should be acquired by the NSW Government. The Project Manager in my opinion is not being honest with the Public Therefore I do not support this project.

Lake Lyell has NSW’s largest platypus population. We regularly see these endangered monotremes when we take our tinny out on the lake. The project will decimate these animals. No new trench dug will change the dire consequences for these amazing animals if this project goes ahead. The fact that it operates at a 20% loss is another reason for its inefficiency. Mt Walker is a significant and highly visible site in the Lithgow area. The fact that many Aboriginal artefacts were taken away without the permission of local Aborigines also screams - we are not interested in this cultural history. The building of a huge dam on Mt Walker will leave this as a monument to your short sightedness forever. This project should NOT go ahead.

Date: 16/4/26
Name. Robyn Cronin
Address: 4 Vickers St
Lithgow NSW 2790
Australian Citizen: Yes
Position: Against the Lake Lyell Pumped Hydro

Submission Against the Lake Lyell Pumped Hydro Project
By Robyn Cronin
Hi, My Name is Robyn Cronin, a resident of Lithgow *Littleton*, and I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed Lake Lyell Pumped Hydro project. This project, in my view, is detrimental to the local environment, community, and economy.
Impact on Recreation and Tourism
As a local who frequents Lake Lyell for fishing, water skiing, and camping, I can confidently say that this project will destroy the very activities that make the lake a cherished destination for locals and visitors alike. Currently, families like mine can camp by the lake, tie boats directly at the water’s edge, and enjoy water sports throughout the day.
If the project goes ahead, the fluctuating water levels caused by the pumping system will create a 30–40-meter mudflat along the shoreline during low water levels. This will make it impossible to tie up boats or access them safely, turning what was once a vibrant recreational spot into a muddy, unsafe, and unappealing site.
The proposed mitigation measures, such as trucking in sand, are impractical and ineffective. Sand will inevitably wash away or sink into the mud, leaving the shoreline in an even worse condition.
Lake Lyell is a critical driver of tourism for Lithgow, drawing thousands of visitors annually. These tourists support local businesses, including accommodation providers, restaurants, and shops. The disruption to recreational activities will lead to a significant decline in tourism, affecting the livelihood of many local families who rely on this income.

Environmental Concerns
The environmental impact of this project is deeply concerning. Lake Lyell is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including platypuses, turtles, and other aquatic species plus many sightings of wombats on the surrounding mountains. The disruption of water levels and increased human activity associated with the project could devastate these habitats. The risks are too high and we will lose another established dwelling for these protected species… Having someone monitoring the Platypus burrows and other habitats is not only ridiculous but unsustainable in the long run!!
Additionally, the construction and maintenance of the reservoir atop Mount Walker will result in the destruction of natural landscapes and ecosystems. The reservoir itself, projected to be larger than the Sydney Harbour Bridge in both height and length, will permanently scar the environment. Even after the project's 80-year lifespan, the reservoir structure will remain, an irreversible blight on the natural beauty of the area.

Economic Considerations
Proponents of the project argue that it will create jobs, but these claims fail to account for the broader economic consequences. While some construction jobs may be created, they will be temporary and likely filled by specialists from outside the region. Once operational, the facility will require minimal staff, contributing little to long-term local employment.
On the other hand, the project threatens the viability of businesses that depend on Lake Lyell’s appeal. The Lake Lyell Recreation Park alone provides more jobs than the project will create. Businesses like Seclusions, Eagleview, hotels, motels, the Japanese Bathhouse and gardens and retail stores will also suffer as visitor numbers decline.

Broader Implications
Beyond the immediate impacts on recreation, tourism, and the environment, the project raises broader questions about its long-term viability and value. An 80-year lifespan is short in the context of infrastructure, and there are no credible plans for decommissioning the facility. The concrete reservoir and associated structures will remain as permanent eyesores, with no way to restore the land to its original state.
The power generated by the facility does not justify the extensive damage it will cause. Renewable energy projects should complement, not compromise, local communities and ecosystems. This proposal fails to achieve that balance.

Personal Impact
For my family and countless others, Lake Lyell is more than just a recreational site—it is a place where memories are made. Holidayers come from all over the state to camp, fish, and ski. The safety issues caused by fluctuating water levels, combined with the loss of access and appeal, will make it nearly impossible for us to continue these traditions. Resulting in another loss of productive tourism for our region!!

Conclusion
The Lake Lyell Pumped Hydro project is not worth the extensive damage it will cause to the local community, environment, and economy. The minimal benefits it offers in terms of power generation and employment cannot outweigh the long-term harm. I urge decision-makers to reject this proposal and explore alternative renewable energy projects that do not come at such a high cost to the region.
Lithgow and Surrounds have suffered enough problems with tourism in recent times, since the closure of the Mount Victoria Pass and this will be another hit to its tourism and aesthetic appeal for those enjoying country life and recreational activities.
Yours Sincerely,
Robyn Cronin