The Western Australian government has released its Plan for Affordable Energy to ensure the state secures reliable, lower-carbon power, including raising the renewable energy target by 75 per cent by 2030-31.
Formulated following industry feedback at the state’s Productivity Roundtable, the comprehensive plan addresses severe cost pressures stemming from Western Australia’s ageing coal-fired power stations and evolving energy markets.
A central element of the strategy establishes a Renewable Energy Target of 75 per cent generation across the South West Interconnected System by the 2030-31 fiscal year.
The ambitious target responds directly to joint calls from industry leaders, investors, unions, and advocacy groups seeking a clear signal of the state’s direction to help mobilise essential private sector investment.
Modelling conducted by the Department of Energy and Economic Diversification and assured by Boston Consulting Group highlights the urgency of the intervention.
The analysis warns that without proactive government measures, industrial electricity costs could surge by 89 per cent by 2032.
To assist local industry immediately, applications are now open for the AU$150 million Made in WA Energy Affordability Investment Program. The program provides low-interest loans up to AU$15 million, enabling manufacturers to install solar and battery systems and upgrade operational equipment to lower overheads.
Additional measures include ongoing support for household solar, batteries, and electric vehicles, sustained commitment to WA’s domestic gas reservation policy, and transitional mechanisms to prevent consumers overpaying for reserve capacity.
Premier Roger Cook said expanding renewable generation backed by battery storage and flexible gas would relieve pressure on electricity prices while protecting manufacturing jobs and helping families with living costs.
“Our Plan for Affordable Energy is about getting more renewables onto the grid, so that all Western Australians can benefit from secure, more affordable energy,” Cook said.
“By delivering more renewable energy backed by battery storage and flexible WA gas, we’re building a State of Energy and putting downward pressure on power prices.”
Energy and Decarbonisation Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson added that renewables, combined with storage and gas, represent the state’s most cost-effective and reliable power mix as Western Australia moves toward retiring state-owned coal generation by 2030.