Western Australia is taking a significant stride towards its clean energy future with the first project assessed under the state government’s Green Energy Approvals Initiative receiving approval.
The Yindjibarndi Energy Corporation (YEC), in partnership with ACEN Australia, has been granted environmental approval for its inaugural solar project of up to 150 megawatts, located within a 13,000 square kilometre area in the Pilbara covered by the Yindjibarndi Native Title Determination Area.
Led by the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation’s green energy directorate, the state government has worked across multiple agencies to ensure the most efficient approvals pathway for this proposal, as well as a significant number of renewable energy projects being pursued in Western Australia.
The Green Energy Approvals Initiative is delivering coordinated, cross-government support for proponents and investors, driving investment in wind and solar power generation, renewable hydrogen industries, lithium mining, and critical minerals processing, as well as the manufacturing of batteries, electrolysers, solar panels, and wind turbines.
YEC’s projects will total three gigawatts of solar, wind, and storage capacity, and if successful, could become one of Australia’s largest renewable energy developments.
The project has the potential to 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 region.
Environment and Climate Action Minister Reece Whitby expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating: “I want to see Western Australia become a renewable energy powerhouse, so it is critical we cut red tape and get clean energy projects online without unnecessary delays. Yindjibarndi’s proposals are exactly what our government wants to see more of in WA.”
Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel echoed similar sentiments, stating: “I’m thrilled the first project assessed under the Green Energy Approvals Initiative has been approved, marking a significant step forward for renewable energy in the Pilbara. This project will help decarbonise our energy systems and create sustainable jobs, driving significant benefits for our community and environment.”
As Western Australia embraces its clean energy future, the approval of the Yindjibarndi Energy Corporation’s solar project marks a significant milestone in the State’s transition towards a sustainable and renewable energy future.