Indigenous agreement secures WA’s clean energy future

WA’s regional energy provider Horizon Power has signed its first Indigenous Land Use Agreement (ILUA) with the Nyul Nyul people of Beagle Bay in the Kimberley.

The agreement, which will support the region’s transition to a clean energy future, allows Horizon Power access to a four-hectare area of land in Beagle Bay for the development of a future energy system that will deliver increased renewable energy for the community.

The renewable energy development is in its planning stages and is expected to draw on the region’s significant solar resource.

WA Energy Minister Reece Whitby says the WA Government is committed to sharing the benefits of the decarbonisation journey with the community.

“We are proud to be working closely with Traditional Owners to ensure the clean energy transition is fair and equitable for all Western Australians,” he said.

“This will ensure remote and regional residents have access to renewable energy so they can reap the benefits of cleaner power.”

WA Aboriginal Affairs Minister Tony Buti says he is pleased to see this ILUA with the Nyul Nyul people reached.

“This an important milestone and part of [the WA] Government’s ongoing commitment to Closing the Gap, Aboriginal empowerment and supporting Aboriginal culture and wellbeing,” he said.

Kimberley member Divina D’Anna comments on the agreement.

“This is an exciting step for renewable energy in the Kimberley and I look forward to seeing more people in remote and regional locations reap the benefits of cleaner power,” she said.

“I am excited to see remote Aboriginal communities playing an important role in our transition to a clean energy future.”