Western Australia’s energy manufacturing sector will receive a significant boost with a $26.4 million investment by the state government, aimed at driving local jobs.
The investment will focus on locally-built clean energy components, including Standalone Power Systems (SPS) and wind turbine manufacturing.
As part of the 2024-25 State Budget, $18.4 million will be allocated to roll out an additional 50 locally-manufactured SPS in regional WA.
SPS are off-grid power solutions that combine solar panels, battery storage, and backup generation to provide low-cost, reliable power to end-of-network customers.
This initiative builds on the success of the 56 SPS units already deployed since 2021, which have not only delivered cleaner, more affordable, and reliable energy but have also enabled the removal of around 184 kilometres of overhead powerlines in regional areas.
The new investment will see the installation of 50 new SPS units in Esperance and throughout the Mid-West region, all of which will be manufactured locally in WA.
In addition, $8 million will be dedicated to supporting local businesses in manufacturing wind turbine components, capitalising on the state’s abundant wind resources and the growing demand for renewable energy.
WA Premier Roger Cook emphasised the importance of ensuring that every Western Australian benefits from the energy transition.
“Our investment means it’s local businesses building the parts we need to become a renewable energy powerhouse,” Cook stated.
WA Energy Minister Reece Whitby underscored the role of SPS in WA’s decarbonisation journey, noting that the investment will ensure regional Western Australians have access to clean, affordable, and reliable power.
WA Minister Assisting the Minister for State and Industry Development, Jobs, and Trade Stephen Dawson highlighted the government’s support for local jobs and the future economy, stating: “By building the capacity and capability of WA businesses to participate in wind energy supply chains, we’re supporting local jobs and helping to set up our economy for the future.”
