Mid West set for standalone power systems as part of State Government investment towards clean energy

Parts of the Mid West are to be included as part of a regional push towards clean energy, with the WA Government putting millions of dollars towards two initiatives. The State Government has put $26.4 million towards WA’s energy manufacturing sector as part of the State Budget, with $18.4m going towards 50 standalone power systems being rolled out in regional WA, including the Mid West. The Esperance region will also receive the power systems, with the project expected to take the State Government’s energy system total to 106 in regional WA. The power systems have allowed about 184km of overhead powerlines to be removed. Premier Roger Cook said the transition to clean energy was important for WA. “The energy transition is the biggest economic shift in a generation, and I want to make sure every Western Australian benefits as we move towards a clean-energy future,” he said. “We’ve got the wind and solar to power a cleaner, affordable and reliable energy future for WA, and our investment means it’s local businesses building the parts we need to become a renewable energy powerhouse. “It’s part of my commitment to always doing what’s right for WA, by diversifying our economy and creating jobs for the future.” In addition, $8m will go towards manufacturing wind turbine components. Local manufacturing businesses will be able to apply for grants to help construct the turbines to increase opportunities to build them around the State. Assistant Minister for State and Industry Development, Jobs and Trade Stephen Dawson said there would be a high demand for wind turbines. “By building the capacity and capability of WA businesses to participate in wind energy supply chains, we’re supporting local jobs and helping to set up our economy for the future,” he said. In 2022, one of Australia’s largest renewable energy microgrids was installed in Kalbarri using solar, wind, and stored energy in a 5MW utility-scale battery.