The Western Australia government has announced a AU$2 million co-investment to establish the state’s first local manufacturing capability for wind tower anchor cages.
The funding, delivered through the AU$8 million Wind Energy Manufacturing Co-Investment Program, will see the state partner with Camco Engineering to bring the production of these critical infrastructure components to WA soil.
The move is part of the government’s Made in WA plan, aimed at diversifying the economy as the state transitions away from coal-fired power.
Anchor cages are high-precision steel structures embedded in concrete foundations to secure massive wind turbines.
Historically, these components have been imported, but the AU$2 million injection will allow Camco to purchase specialised equipment to pivot its existing industrial expertise toward the burgeoning renewables sector.
WA Energy, Decarbonisation, and Manufacturing Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson said the investment was vital for the state’s energy independence.
“There has never been a more important time to secure clean, affordable, and reliable energy in Western Australia, which is why our government investing in the energy transition and our Made in WA plan,” Sanderson said.
“This investment will establish a new local manufacturing capability for critical wind energy infrastructure, reducing reliance on imports and strengthening WA’s manufacturing base.”
The project is expected to be an economic driver, tipped to create up to 26 new local jobs and generate more than AU$46 million in new revenue for Camco over the next five years.
Camco is the fourth local manufacturer to receive support under the program, which requires proponents to match government funding.
As part of the project, Camco will collaborate with a global wind energy original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and a wind project developer to deliver the new capability.
Glenn Bailey, CEO of Camco Engineering, said: “Our project is an important strategic step in building a truly local capability in wind infrastructure manufacturing.
“With the support of the Western Australian government and AMGC, we’ll work closely with global wind energy leaders to leverage our advanced manufacturing expertise into the clean energy sector and ensure value from future projects is retained here in Western Australia for the benefit of all Western Australians.”