EOIs sought for Pilbara transmission project

As part of its plan to bring renewable energy to the Pilbara, the WA Government is seeking expressions of interest (EOIs) for the building of transmission infrastructure.

The Pilbara Energy Transition Plan aims to speed up decarbonisation and meet increasing energy demand by boosting the development of common-use infrastructure in the region.

“Through the Pilbara Energy Transition Plan we are driving the region’s decarbonisation in a way that supports existing industry, unlocks new business and job opportunities, and minimises impact on Country,” said WA Energy Minister Reece Whitby.

“This is a world-class infrastructure investment opportunity that will play a pivotal role in global decarbonisation.”

Successful applicants will be granted Priority Project status, meaning their project can benefit from state government facilitation. They will also 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 builds on previously announced 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.

“This is another step in our journey to cleaner energy, and will support existing industries and create new opportunities,” said Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel.

“By focusing on key transmission corridors, we can drive growth and ensure the Pilbara remains a key player in Australia’s economy.”

Applications close on 25 October, with recommendations expected by the end of 2024. For more information, visit https://www.wa.gov.au/organisation/energy-policy-wa/pilbara-energy-transition-plan.

Image credit: iStock.com/Andrew Bertuleit