Wind with Purpose (WWP) has formalised a landmark partnership with Barrington Energy and the Gnaala Karla Booja Aboriginal Corporation (GKB) to co-develop the 2GW Catalpa Offshore Wind Farm, located 40 kilometres off Western Australia’s coast near the Kwinana Industrial Area.
The agreement grants GKB an equity stake in the project, marking a significant step toward integrating First Nations communities into Australia’s renewable energy transition.
The Catalpa Offshore Wind Farm, designed to bolster industrial decarbonisation and energy security, will generate enough electricity to power approximately 1.4 million homes.
Its strategic location aims to support heavy industries in the Kwinana region, a hub for mining and manufacturing.
The partnership ensures GKB’s involvement in feasibility studies, particularly in environmental stewardship and cultural heritage assessments, while unlocking employment, training, and sustainable business opportunities for the Gnaala Karla Booja community.
The collaboration will channel resources into GKB-led programs, including the Cultural Resilience Fund and the Sea Ranger Project, which focus on marine conservation and cultural preservation.
GKB Chairman John Penny emphasised the alignment with their Moorditj Mila (Strong Future) Strategic Plan, stating the partnership “helps us build a stronger future for our community”.
WWP Chairman David Thomas highlighted the broader significance of the deal, stating: “This partnership is a key milestone for Australia’s energy transition and demonstrates our commitment to delivering economic and social benefits to Indigenous communities.”
The project now awaits federal approval for a feasibility licence, which would enable detailed planning and viability assessments.
The announcement follows setbacks in other Western Australian offshore wind proposals, including shelved plans by OceanEx Energy and Skyborn Renewables.
Federal Energy Minister Chris Bowen recently confirmed four active bids for the Bunbury zone, where Catalpa is proposed, though not all are expected to proceed.
WWP’s partnership positions it as a frontrunner in addressing both renewable energy goals and Indigenous economic inclusion.
