- Yindjibarndi Energy Corporation receives environmental approval for first of several proposals totalling three gigawatts of clean energy
- Proposals could become one of Australia's largest renewable energy developments
- Another step forward as Western Australia becomes a renewable energy powerhouse
Western Australia is embracing its clean energy future with the first project assessed as part of the State Government's Green Energy Approvals Initiative granted approval.
Earlier this month, Yindjibarndi Energy Corporation (YEC) - in partnership with ACEN Australia - received environmental approval for its first 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 WA.
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.
It could also play a significant role decarbonising WA, creating sustainable, long-term training and employment opportunities for Aboriginal Australians, and supporting renewable energy uptake by industry in the Pilbara.
The Green Energy Approvals Initiative is delivering coordinated, cross-Government support for proponents and investors.
Now fully operational, the initiative is 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.
Comments attributed to Environment; Climate Action Minister Reece Whitby:
"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.
"With the potential to decarbonise our State's energy systems, create On Country jobs for Aboriginal Australians, and support renewable energy uptake by industry in the Pilbara, I look forward to seeing Yindjibarndi Energy Corporation's proposals come to fruition."
As stated by Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel:
"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.
"Making Western Australia a renewable energy superpower involves cutting red tape and accelerating clean energy projects, which is essential for our State's sustainable future.
"I'm excited to see the Yindjibarndi Energy Corporation's projects come to life, setting a new standard for renewable energy developments in the Pilbara."
