Fertilizer Giant Advances Indigenous-Supported 1.2 GW Green Energy Hub
The Fertilizer Giant Perdaman is taking a significant step toward a greener future by advancing an Indigenous-supported 1.2 GW green energy hub in Western Australia. Their initial project is a 50 megawatt (MW) solar facility located near Karratha. This marks the first stage of an ambitious 5 gigawatt (GW) energy vision.
Project Overview
The new solar project will be connected to Perdaman’s $4.5 billion Project Ceres urea plant, situated on the Burrup Peninsula. The aim is to complete the connection by the end of 2027, with terms expected to be established by year-end.
Ngarluma Aboriginal Corporation Energy Park
This solar installation is the inaugural project of a broader 1.2 GW energy park initiative spearheaded by the Ngarluma Aboriginal Corporation (NAC). The NAC plans to lease its land in the Pilbara to green energy developers, promoting a sustainable future while ensuring unified access to land, heritage, and environmental approvals.
Government Support
The Western Australian government is supporting this vision with a commitment of $2.7 million. This funding will cover surveys, approval works, and technical activities for the proposed energy hub over the next year.
Regional Significance
Ngarluma country encompasses significant coastal areas in the Pilbara, including key towns like Karratha, Roebourne, Wickham, Cape Lambert, and Whim Creek. This region is crucial for the Pilbara’s industry, hosting major companies such as Rio Tinto Iron Ore and Woodside.
Impact on Renewable Energy Development
Belinda Churnside, Ngarluma Green Energy Director, emphasized that the Ngarluma Green Energy Parks will revolutionize the quick and straightforward development of large-scale renewable projects. The initiative will be fully owned and operated by the NAC, benefitting the Ngarluma people.
Future Connections and Infrastructure
The Perdaman solar project will also connect to the Maitland-Karratha-Burrup transmission line. This corridor is one of four prioritized by the Cook government to accelerate the decarbonization of heavy industries in Northern Western Australia.
This innovative initiative showcases a strong partnership between the Ngarluma Aboriginal Corporation and Perdaman, aiming to establish the first green energy park by 2027. The collaborative effort highlights the importance of green energy in building a sustainable future for the region.
