Green is a go: WA initiative approves first project
A solar project in the Pilbara, WA, is the first project approved under the WA Government’s Green Energy Approvals Initiative.
The approved project of up to 150MW will be located within a 13,000km2 in the Pilbara and is part of Indigenous-led Yindjibarndi Energy Corporation’s (YEC) plans for one of Australia’s largest renewable energy developments intended to total 3GW of solar, wind and storage capacity.
Pilbara member Kevin Michel says this project sets a new standard for renewable energy developments.
“I’m thrilled the first project assessed under the Green Energy Approvals Initiative has been approved, marking a significant step forward for renewable energy in the Pilbara,” he said.
WA Environment and Climate Action Minister Reece Whitby says the project is exactly what the State Government wants to see more of in WA.
“With the potential to decarbonise our State’s energy systems, create On Country jobs for Aboriginal Australians and support renewable energy uptake by industry in the Pilbara, I look forward to seeing Yindjibarndi Energy Corporation’s proposals come to fruition.”
The Green Energy Approvals Initiative is intended to deliver coordinated, cross-government support for proponents and investors.
Now fully operational, the initiative is driving investment in wind and solar power generation, renewable hydrogen industries, lithium mining and critical minerals processing, as well as the manufacturing of batteries, electrolysers, solar panels and wind turbines.
“I want to see [WA] become a renewable energy powerhouse, so it is critical we cut red tape and get clean energy projects online without unnecessary delays,” said Minister Whitby.
