The Western Australian government has taken a significant step towards decarbonising one of the state’s most iconic tourist destinations.
Horizon Power, the state-owned energy provider, has signed a 20-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with Pacific Energy to supply the coastal town of Exmouth with up to 80 per cent renewable energy by 2026.
Under the agreement, a new hybrid system will be constructed, comprising a 9.6-megawatt (MW) solar farm and two batteries with a combined capacity of 10MW/49.6MWh.
These facilities will be built adjacent to the existing Exmouth Power Station.
The renewable energy sources will be supplemented by gas-fired generation when necessary, ensuring a reliable power supply for the community.
Western Australian Premier Roger Cook highlighted the project’s importance, stating: “This project will see Exmouth become a hub for renewable energy, furthering our goal of decarbonising regional centres around the state.”
He emphasised that the transition to renewables will create job opportunities and diversify regional economies.
Construction of the new solar facilities is scheduled to begin in mid-2025, with the system expected to be fully operational by the end of 2026.
The solar farm and battery energy storage system are projected to offset nearly 14,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually over the life of the PPA.
Mike Hall, Chief Operating Officer of Pacific Energy, noted that the project was driven by the community’s desire for a clean energy solution that would help protect their UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The new system will also reduce gas transport movements through the town, addressing another community concern.
This agreement is part of a larger effort by the Western Australian government to decarbonise regional areas.
It follows recent plans to build transmission infrastructure on the Burrup Peninsula, connecting industry with emerging renewable energy developments in the Pilbara region.
Stephanie Unwin, CEO of Horizon Power, emphasised the company’s commitment to exploring ways to support increased levels of renewable energy across Western Australia’s regions.
She stated: “We are proud to be delivering innovative projects such as the new energy system in Exmouth, which will support a clean energy future, with safe, reliable power, for regional Western Australians.”
The Exmouth project demonstrates the potential for high renewable energy penetration in remote areas and serves as a model for future energy transitions in similar communities across Australia.
