The Western Australian Government has called for expressions of interest in billions of dollars of new transmission projects in the Pilbara to support emerging clean energy industries.
As part of the EOI process, the government will seek proponents that can build transmission that can decarbonise industry while minimising on-Country impacts.
The process forms part of decarbonisation efforts through the Pilbara Energy Transition Plan, which aims to accelerate decarbonisation and meet increasing energy demands by encouraging the development of common-use infrastructure in the region.
Successful proponents will be granted Priority Project status – meaning the project can benefit from State Government facilitation – as well as receive the state’s recommendation to negotiate with the Clean Energy Finance Corporation to access funding through the Federal Government’s $3 billion Rewiring the Nation fund.
Applicants are being sought to develop projects in the following transmission corridors:
- The Burrup (Murujuga) Corridor linking the Maitland Strategic Industrial Area (SIA), with Karratha and the Burrup SIA
- The Chichester Range Corridor connecting the Maitland SIA with a high-quality wind zone proximate to the Chichester Range
- The Hamersley Range Corridor connecting the Boodarie SIA and Port Hedland with the eastern edge of the Hamersley Range
- The Great Sandy Desert Corridor connecting the Boodarie SIA and Port Hedland with proposed renewable generation projects near the Great Sandy Desert
This announcement follows the announcement of plans to deliver a high-capacity common-use transmission line linking renewable energy generation in the Maitland SIA with Karratha and major Pilbara industry players.
Applications close on 25 October, with recommendations expected by the end of 2024.
Western Australian Energy Minister, Reece Whitby, said the Pilbara Energy Transition Plan is driving the region’s decarbonisation to support existing industry, unlock new business and job opportunities, and minimise impact on the Country.
“This is a world-class infrastructure investment opportunity that will play a pivotal role in global decarbonisation.
“The Pilbara will be a clean energy powerhouse with the potential to amplify the economic success of our mining industry, and I encourage all interested parties to engage in this generational opportunity.”
Western Australian Minister Assisting the State and Industry Development, Jobs and Trade Minister, Stephen Dawson, said this is another exciting project the State Government is undertaking to support decarbonising the Pilbara.
“This EOI process is an important step to ensure Western Australia’s economic heartland has the necessary infrastructure to decarbonise industry and support our region’s ambition of becoming a clean energy superpower.”
Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel expressed his excitement about the new EOI process for priority transmission projects in the Pilbara.
“This is another step in our journey to cleaner energy and will support existing industries and create new opportunities.
“By focusing on key transmission corridors we can drive growth and ensure the Pilbara remains a key player in Australia’s economy.
“I encourage all interested parties to apply and be part of the Pilbara’s bright, sustainable future.”
Featured image: Sunshine Seeds/shutterstock.com
