In a significant step towards a clean energy future, Western Australia has granted approval for the first project assessed under its Green Energy Approvals Initiative.
The project, led by Yindjibarndi Energy Corporation (YEC) in partnership with ACEN Australia, is a solar project of up to 150 megawatts located within the Yindjibarndi Native Title Determination Area in the Pilbara region.
The Green Energy Approvals Initiative, launched by the state government, aims to streamline the approvals process for renewable energy projects in Western Australia.
The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation’s green energy directorate, in collaboration with multiple agencies, has worked to ensure an efficient approvals pathway for this proposal and numerous other renewable energy projects being pursued in the state.
YEC’s projects, which could total three gigawatts of solar, wind, and storage capacity, have the potential to become one of Australia’s largest renewable energy developments.
If successful, these projects could play a significant role in decarbonising Western Australia, creating sustainable, long-term training and employment opportunities for Aboriginal Australians, and supporting renewable energy uptake by industry in the Pilbara.
The Green Energy Approvals Initiative is fully operational and is driving investment in various clean energy sectors, including wind and solar power generation, renewable hydrogen industries, lithium mining, critical minerals processing, and the manufacturing of batteries, electrolysers, solar panels, and wind turbines.
Environment and Climate Action Minister Reece Whitby emphasised the importance of cutting red tape and accelerating clean energy projects to make Western Australia a renewable energy powerhouse.
He expressed enthusiasm for Yindjibarndi’s proposals, which align with the government’s goals of decarbonising the state’s energy systems, creating on-country jobs for Aboriginal Australians, and supporting renewable energy uptake by industry in the Pilbara.
Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel also welcomed the approval of the first project under the Green Energy Approvals Initiative, stating that it marks a significant milestone for renewable energy in the region.
He highlighted the potential benefits of the project, including decarbonisation, job creation, and community and environmental advantages.
Michel emphasised the importance of cutting red tape and accelerating clean energy projects for Western Australia’s sustainable future.
