The Future Energy Exports Cooperative Research Centre (FEnEx CRC) has reached a major milestone in advancing Australia’s clean energy leadership, appointing Western Projects to construct Stage 1 of the Kwinana Energy Transformation Hub (KETH).
Located within the Kwinana Industrial Area, KETH is being developed as a multi-user, open-access testbed dedicated to accelerating the commercialisation of new energy solutions and derisking decarbonisation pathways.
The hub will also play an essential role in building capability and supporting skills development within Western Australia’s fast-evolving clean energy workforce.
FEnEx CRC Chief Executive Officer Professor Eric May said the contract award marked a decisive step forward for the project and for Australia’s clean energy transition.
“This contract is a major milestone for KETH. The new facility will provide a safe, real-world environment to test and prove clean energy technologies, helping them reach the market faster,” he said.
“KETH will be a thriving industrial R&D hub and a catalyst for building Western Australia’s clean energy ecosystem.
“It will create jobs, support skills development, and strengthen WA’s role as a leader in the clean energy industries.
“It will not only help industry reduce emissions but also boost Australia’s reputation as a reliable clean energy partner worldwide.
“We are grateful for the support of the WA government, whose Investment Attraction Fund grant is pivotal to establishing this new facility for clean energy research, demonstration and training.”
The KETH project includes a state-of-the-art Research and Development (R&D) building which is scheduled for completion in October 2026. Designed by Ferguson Architects, the facility will serve as the cornerstone of the hub’s mission to accelerate innovation across the clean energy sector.
The planning, design and construction of the Stage 1 R&D building are being delivered entirely by Western Australian companies.
Both the materials and workforce have been sourced locally, reinforcing FEnEx CRC’s commitment to supporting the state’s industrial base and maximising local industry participation.
Western Projects Director Jos Colvin said the company is proud to play a central role in delivering such a transformative project for Western Australia and the nation.
“Western Projects is proud to be delivering the construction of KETH, a nationally significant initiative driving innovation in energy transition technologies,” Colvin said.
“As a WA-based company, we are committed to supporting local industry, creating job opportunities, and contributing to a more sustainable energy future.
“We look forward to working closely with the FEnEx CRC and project partners to bring this visionary project to life.”
Once completed, the KETH R&D building will host collaborative research, demonstration and training facilities aimed at strengthening Australia’s energy innovation ecosystem.
The Hub will connect domestic expertise with international partners to position Australia as a global leader in emissions measurement and verification, energy decarbonisation, and the provision of low-carbon fuels.
Through partnerships like this, FEnEx CRC continues to build the foundations for a cleaner and more sustainable energy future, supporting both national and global decarbonisation goals.
