The Western Australian government has awarded a major contract for the first stage of the Clean Energy Link – East (CEL – East) project to WA-based businesses Acciona, GenusPlus, and UGL Engineering.
The multi-million-dollar infrastructure project is set to initially create 300 jobs, scaling up to 600 positions at the peak of construction.
Stage one of the CEL – East expansion involves constructing new and upgraded 330kV transmission lines between Collie and Darkan to channel energy from renewable energy zones across the eastern and south-eastern regions of the South West Interconnected System.
The scope of works includes 38km of transmission lines from Shotts to Cordering, 54km of lines from Muja to Cordering, a new terminal at Cordering, and expansions at the existing Shotts and Muja terminals.
Once completed, CEL – East will unlock roughly 2.3GW of renewable energy capacity, enough power to supply around one million homes. Together with CEL – North, it forms one of the largest technology and infrastructure programs in Western Australia’s history.
Premier Roger Cook said granting the Priority Project status would fast-track its delivery ahead of the state’s planned exit from state-owned coal-fired power by 2030.
“We’re building a state of energy in Western Australia, securing affordable, reliable, and lower carbon energy for WA households and businesses,” Cook said.
“Affordable, reliable, and lower carbon energy will power jobs in defence, advanced manufacturing, and the downstream processing of our minerals.”
The announcement coincides with new figures showing state utility Western Power spent more than AU$1.3 billion with local businesses during the 2025–26 financial year, up from AU$850 million previously.
The utility engaged over 290 local suppliers following a ministerial direction by Energy Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson instructing Government Trading Enterprises to prioritise Western Australian workers and contractors during grid upgrades.
“Clean Energy Link – East will deliver more affordable energy to WA households, while supporting local jobs and local businesses,” Sanderson said.