The Western Australian Government is making waves in the renewable energy sector with a substantial $270 million contract awarded to GenusPlus (ASX:GNP) for the Clean Energy Link – North project. This initiative is part of a broader commitment by the Cook Labor government, which has funneled a whopping $5.7 billion into onshore wind, large-scale battery storage, and new transmission projects since 2017. This investment isn’t just a drop in the bucket; it represents a transformative shift toward a cleaner energy future for the state.
GenusPlus will take on the task of expanding the South West Interconnected System’s (SWIS) northern section, paving the way for increased clean energy generation in the Mid West. The contract encompasses the design and construction of two new terminals at Regans Ford and Eneabba, alongside an associated line and the augmentation of existing 330kV Northern and Eneabba terminals. This work is set to kick off in January 2025, with completion expected by mid-2027. The project will engage a peak workforce of around 140, primarily drawn from GenusPlus’s existing team, showcasing the company’s commitment to local employment.
David Riches, Managing Director of Genus, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing the long-standing partnership with Western Power. “Genus has worked with Western Power for many years and is very pleased to have secured this project and to be able to continue working with Western Power on a project that is very important to Western Australia as it moves towards a clean energy future,” he stated. This sentiment resonates deeply within the industry, as collaboration between public and private sectors is crucial for driving significant change.
Western Power’s CEO, Sam Barbaro, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the urgency of transitioning to a sustainable energy system. “We’re continually investigating network capacity expansion and strengthening options that maximise the use of existing network infrastructure, corridors, and easements and minimise impacts on the communities and the environment,” Barbaro said. This proactive approach is essential in a time when energy demands are on the rise and the need for sustainable solutions has never been more pressing.
Energy Minister Reece Whitby pointed out that the Clean Energy Link project will not only support this initiative but also benefit surrounding projects, such as the $400 million expansion of the Warradarge Wind Farm. This wind farm, owned by Bright Energy Investments—a joint venture between Synergy, Cbus Super, and CVC DIF—will play a vital role in bolstering the renewable energy landscape in the region.
The Western Australian Government’s commitment to upgrading the state’s main electricity network is a strategic move to unlock renewable energy generation opportunities and facilitate decarbonisation. Strengthening the northern transmission network is critical, with modeling suggesting a tenfold increase in renewable generation may be necessary to meet future low-emissions electricity demand. Whitby emphasized that these initiatives collectively ensure Western Australia is prepared for future growth, aiming to retire all state-owned coal-fired power plants by 2030.
The implications of this contract and the broader Clean Energy Link project could ripple through the mining sector, which has traditionally relied on fossil fuels. As the state moves toward a cleaner energy future, mining companies may need to rethink their energy strategies, particularly if they want to align with the decarbonisation goals set forth by the government. With the landscape shifting, the industry must adapt or risk being left behind. This project is not just a step forward for Western Australia; it’s a signal to the mining sector that the future is green, and it’s time to get on board.
