The Western Australian Government is seeking to boost decarbonisation of the Pilbara by collaborating with Ngarluma Aboriginal Corporation (NAC) to develop the Ngarluma Green Energy Park on Ngarluma Country in Western Australia.
The collaboration between NAC, Perdaman, and the state government will establish a 50-megawatt solar farm, marking the first project for the park.
The government will contribute $2.7 million to support NAC through the development and activation of the Ngarluma Green Energy Park.
The plan for the project includes obtaining tenure and subleasing arrangements to various solar generation and battery storage advocates, with the potential participation in future projects through joint ventures or agreements with solar developers.
Energy and Decarbonisation and Pilbara Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson says the program will create jobs, training, and long-term opportunities, supporting the agenda to make Western Australia a renewable energy powerhouse.
“Supporting Ngarluma Aboriginal Corporation and Perdman in this landmark partnership is another step in decarbonising Pilbara and realising the benefits of the region’s renewable energy resources,” she says.
The solar farm will connect to Perdaman’s $6.4 billion Project Ceres Urea Plant by the end of 2027, with agreements to negotiate terms by the end of 2026, as reported.
Ngarluma Green Energy Director Belinda Churnside says the park will be a “game changer” for the development of renewable projects in the region.
“We very much appreciate the support and partnership we have with Perdaman and the State to help NAC activate the first Green Energy Park,” Churnside says.
Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel says this marks an important milestone, recognising the ambition of Traditional Owners and major industry in the journey to decarbonise Pilbara.
“With support from the Cook government, this collaboration will deliver real benefits for the region, communities, and industry,” he says.
The Ngarluma Green Energy Park is 100% owned and operated by Traditional Owners.
Write to Paige Furner at Mining.com.au
Images: Government of Western Australia
