An investment of more than $700 million will strengthen the state's primary electricity grid, paving the way for increased renewable energy integration and positioning Western Australia as a global leader in renewable energy.
- $708 million allocated to South West Interconnected System Transmission
- Upgrades critical to unlocking Western Australia's renewable energy potential
- PoweringWA initiative to coordinate electricity infrastructure and support communities
- Crucial step in Western Australia's development as a renewable energy hub
An investment of more than $700 million will strengthen the state's primary electricity grid, paving the way for increased renewable energy integration and positioning Western Australia as a global leader in renewable energy.
Improvements to the electricity transmission network are essential to facilitate the connection of large-scale renewable energy projects to the grid, both for local consumption and for emerging sectors such as renewable hydrogen.
The initiative will provide $575 million to expand the capacity of the northern section of the network, including the construction of a new 330kV double circuit transmission line from Malaga to Pinjar, facilitating the connection of major renewable energy projects in the Midwest.
A further $133 million will be spent on planning for new lines, reinforcements and upgrades in key industrial areas such as Kwinana and Collie, as well as upgrades between Geraldton and Perth to support development in Oakajee.
Strengthening the northern transmission network is essential as projections suggest a tenfold increase in renewable energy generation may be required to meet future low emission electricity demand.
To facilitate this transition, the PoweringWA initiative will oversee the timely delivery of the new electricity infrastructure needed to decarbonise.
Housed within the Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety, PoweringWA will coordinate the construction of transmission lines, renewable energy generation and storage infrastructure.
It will oversee planning, community engagement, industry collaboration and project management, ensuring full consideration of environmental, cultural and social factors, while delivering reliable, low-emission electricity to all consumers.
For more information, visit https://www.westernpower.com.au/resources-education/network-improvements/network-upgrade-projects/decarbonisation-work