The Western Australian government has taken a decisive step in advancing the Pilbara region’s clean energy transition by launching an open Expressions of Interest (EOI) process to secure power supply from 2030.
Horizon Power, the regional electricity provider, is inviting suitably qualified Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to submit proposals aimed at meeting the area’s future energy demands.
This initiative is a key component of the Pilbara Energy Transition Plan, which focuses on establishing renewable energy solutions to support the region’s heavy industry while ensuring reliable and cost-effective power.
The EOI process particularly encourages proposals that include innovative renewable energy technologies and robust partnerships with Traditional Owner groups.
“The Pilbara has long been the engine room of our state’s economy,” said Energy and Decarbonisation Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson.
“Today’s announcement is a critical step to securing the ongoing prosperity and future energy needs of the region.”
The government is targeting a broad range of industry participants to foster a competitive and diverse pool of energy suppliers.
Proposals demonstrating clear pathways to land access, especially those involving Traditional Owner groups, will receive favourable consideration as part of the commitment to increase Indigenous participation in the region’s energy future.
“The Cook government’s vision is for a Pilbara energy system that is reliable, cost-effective, and sustainable, aligned to our Pilbara Energy Transition Plan – which is transforming the region into a renewable powerhouse,” Minister Sanderson added.
The EOI process will provide Horizon Power with greater flexibility in its generation procurement, enabling optimisation of local supplier engagement.
This aligns with the Western Australian Industry Participation Strategy Ministerial Direction, ensuring that local content and industry development remain central to government energy projects.
Notably, the Pilbara Energy Transition Plan envisions private sector-led development of shared transmission infrastructure.
This infrastructure will facilitate the delivery of renewable energy to heavy industries in the Pilbara, reducing fossil fuel dependence and enabling greater sustainability in one of Australia’s most economically significant regions.
Operators and groups interested in participating in the EOI are encouraged to submit their proposals by the closing date at the end of February 2026.
More information on the process and submission guidelines is available through the Tenders WA platform.
Minister Sanderson emphasised the government’s dedication to fostering economic opportunities alongside environmental goals: “We are committed to maximising opportunities for local businesses and suppliers, ensuring that Western Australian industry is at the forefront of delivering the Pilbara’s future energy needs.”
This latest move underlines the WA government’s strategic approach to bolstering Western Australia’s transition to renewable energy while supporting the Pilbara as a vital contributor to the state’s economy and energy innovation landscape.
The open call for EOI marks an important milestone toward a sustainable and inclusive energy future for the region.
