- Horizon Power signs Indigenous Land Use Agreement with the Nyul Nyul people
- Agreement to support renewable energy uptake for remote Kimberley community
- Horizon Power to provide additional support as part of the agreement
Western Australia's regional energy provider Horizon Power has signed its first Indigenous Land Use Agreement (ILUA) with the Nyul Nyul people of Beagle Bay in the Kimberley.
The agreement, which will support the region's transition to a clean energy future, allows Horizon Power access to a four-hectare area of land in Beagle Bay for the development of a future energy system that will deliver increased renewable energy for the community.
The renewable energy development is in its planning stages and is expected to draw on the region's significant solar resource.
Horizon Power will work with the Nyul Nyul people and the Beagle Bay community as part of that development.
Horizon Power will also provide broader support to the community as part of the agreement, including through installation of airstrip lighting to improve safety for services like the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
As stated by Energy Minister Reece Whitby:
"The State Government is committed to sharing the benefits of the decarbonisation journey with community.
"We are proud to be working closely with Traditional Owners to ensure the clean energy transition is fair and equitable for all Western Australians.
"This will ensure remote and regional residents have access to renewable energy so they can reap the benefits of cleaner power."
As stated by Aboriginal Affairs Minister Tony Buti:
"I am very pleased to see this Indigenous Land Use Agreement with the Nyul Nyul people reached.
"This an important milestone and part of our Government's ongoing commitment to Closing the Gap, Aboriginal empowerment and supporting Aboriginal culture and wellbeing."
Comments attributed to Kimberley MLA Divina D'Anna:
"This is an exciting step for renewable energy in the Kimberley and I look forward to seeing more people in remote and regional locations reap the benefits of cleaner power.
"I am excited to see remote Aboriginal communities playing an important role in our transition to a clean energy future."
