Western Australia govt okays 15-GW wind, solar mega-project
October 20 : The government of Western Australia said it has granted state environmental approval for the 15-GW first stage of the Asian Renewable Energy Hub, a massive wind and solar power project planned for the Pilbara region.
In the long term, the project will reach 26 GW of renewables and incorporate green hydrogen and ammonia production for both domestic use and overseas markets. At least 3 GW of the power will be destined for large users in Pilbara.
The Asian Renewable Energy Hub was proposed by a consortium formed by renewable energy projects developer CWP Energy Asia, bank Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX:MQG), green fuels company InterContinental Energy and wind turbine maker Vestas Wind Systems A/S (CPH:VWS). The first stage will generate 10 GW of wind and 5 GW of solar power. Once all 26 GW of turbines and panels are installed, the mega-plant will occupy 6,500 square kilometres (2,510 sq miles) of traditional land of the Nyangumarta People in the East Pilbara region.
The developing consortium said it has engaged with the traditional land owners since the start.
According to the project’s website, the financial investment decision is expected in 2025, while construction is planned to start the following year.
The construction period will take a decade, during which 5,000 jobs will be created, while the operations phase will open 3,000 direct jobs over 50-plus years, the Western Australian government said.
Source : renewablesnow
